Senator Mohammed Onawo, who represents Nasarawa South Senatorial District, has officially defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), while declaring his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State.
The senator made the announcement on Wednesday during a press conference in Lafia, describing his decision as the outcome of extensive consultations with political leaders, associates and stakeholders across the state.
Explaining the reasons behind his departure, Onawo accused the ADC of conducting a governorship primary that lacked transparency and fairness. According to him, the process was marred by manipulation and failed to provide aspirants with a level playing field.
The lawmaker, who was elected into the Senate on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023 before later joining the ADC, said the circumstances surrounding the party’s primary election convinced him that it was no longer the right political platform. He alleged that the governorship primary results appeared manipulated and claimed the party made no meaningful effort to address complaints raised by aggrieved members.
“I was ready to accept the outcome and work for the party if there was a level playing ground for the candidates. But the result was manipulated with impunity,” he said.
Onawo said his decision to join the APM aligns with his vision of inclusive leadership, grassroots development and unity across Nasarawa State.
He confirmed that he would seek the party’s ticket to contest the 2027 governorship election. According to the senator, his years of legislative service have prepared him for the responsibilities of leading the state.
“After due consultation, I have decided to pitch my tent with APM and to answer the call to contest for the governorship of Nasarawa State in 2027,” he declared.
The senator pledged to build an administration that accommodates every ethnic and religious group in the state if elected.
He said Nasarawa requires leadership capable of uniting its diverse population while delivering development to communities across the state. Onawo also highlighted his political experience, pointing to his previous roles as Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, two-term member of the House of Representatives and current senator.
He argued that those experiences have enabled him to build strong political relationships within and outside the state. According to him, his administration would prioritise prosperity, unity and people-centred governance.
The governorship hopeful also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the 2027 general elections are conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.
He stressed that credible elections remain essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and giving the people confidence in the electoral process. Onawo expressed optimism that the APM would provide the platform needed to actualise his vision for Nasarawa State and urged residents to support his bid ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
