A coalition of youth groups under the aegis of the Nasarawa State Indigenous Youth Forum has called on the political class to prioritise unity and economic empowerment over sentiments capable of dividing the people along religious or ethnic lines.
The forum’s spokesperson, Mr. David Bartholomew, made the call during a press briefing held on the sidelines of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s endorsement of a preferred successor ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Since the announcement of Senator Ahmed Wadada as the governor’s choice for the Nasarawa State governorship seat, mixed reactions have continued to trail the decision.
To declare their position, leaders of various youth groups under the forum converged on Lafia, expressing support for the governor’s choice and urging stakeholders to embrace a common front.
In his address, Mr. Bartholomew noted that Nasarawa State is still evolving towards sustainable economic growth and viability, a process that requires unity of purpose and a shared vision.
“We fully support the choice of Senator Ahmed Wadada as the preferred successor of Governor Abdullahi Sule. This is for the progressive development of Nasarawa State,” he said.
He stressed that the time had come for the political class to shun divisive politics, especially when disagreements arise over the governor’s endorsement.
Mr. Bartholomew described Senator Wadada as a bona fide indigene of the state, recalling his representation of Keffi, Kokona and Karu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, as well as his election as senator for Nasarawa West.
“We are surprised to hear some politicians raising sentiments and claiming that Wadada is not from the state. This is anti-progress. Anyone with the interest of Nasarawa State at heart should support the governor’s choice,” he added.
The spokesperson further emphasised the need for stakeholders, particularly members of the All Progressives Congress, to act as vanguards of peace and align with what he described as the visionary leadership of Governor Sule’s administration.
He also urged youths across the state to remain patriotic and place the collective interest of Nasarawa State above narrow or parochial considerations. (Radio Nigeria)
