Barely weeks after dumping the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its governorship primary, Senator Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo, has emerged as the governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Nasarawa State.
Onawo, who currently represents Nasarawa South Senatorial District, clinched the ticket on Saturday following his affirmation at a special congress of the party held at the Manyi Royal Suites, Lafia.
The development followed the voluntary withdrawal of the party’s former candidate and state chairman, Engr Mohammed Auwal, who stepped down to pave way for Onawo in the interest of the party and the state.
The APM leadership said the substitution was carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, which permits the replacement of a candidate who has withdrawn from a race.
Onawo had earlier contested the ADC governorship primary but lost to retired Major General Nuhu Angbazo, a result he rejected before defecting to the APM to pursue his ambition.
His affirmation was through a motion moved by a party chieftain, Ahmed Dogara, and seconded by Shehu Giza, which was subsequently adopted by members through a unanimous voice vote.
In his acceptance speech, Onawo expressed excitement over his emergence, commending Engr. Auwal for finding him worthy to relinquish the mandate. He pledged to bring inclusive development and unite the diverse people of the state if elected governor in 2027.
Earlier, Engr. Auwal explained that his decision to resign from the contest was driven by his desire to see accelerated development and political progress in Nasarawa State.
