Veteran journalist and one of the youngest founding figures of Nasarawa State, Ayuba Umar, has officially withdrawn from the 2027 governorship race, citing principles of fairness, equity, and responsible leadership as reasons behind his decision.
Umar, a leading member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), announced his withdrawal in a Facebook post on Tuesday after what he described as wide consultations and careful personal reflection.
Explaining his position, the former governorship aspirant said it would be politically unfair and morally difficult for him to remain in the contest because he shares the same senatorial district, local government area, and constituency with the incumbent governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule.
According to him, leadership must be guided by consistency and justice, especially when advocating for balanced representation and zoning in the state.
“If I speak against political imbalance when others seek to benefit from it, then I must also reject it when I stand to gain. That is the true test of principled leadership and the responsibility that comes with integrity and accountability,” he stated.
Umar recalled that he had previously stepped aside in 2018 in the interest of political stability, noting that his latest decision was another sacrifice aimed at protecting democratic values and strengthening public trust in leadership.
“In 2018, I stepped aside for peace and stability. In 2026, I am stepping aside again to preserve the credibility of the principles that sustain democracy. This is not surrender; it is a reflection of conviction, character, and integrity,” he added.
Ayuba Umar had recently joined the African Democratic Congress after resigning from the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), where he was previously a prominent member.