Follow Us on Google
- APC finally secures majority seat in House of Assembly
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
In the political arena of Keana local government state house of Assembly Constituency, the drama surrounding Hon. Muhammed Omadefu’s tenure has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride.
Recently ousted by the appeal court, his return was facilitated by an unexpected alliance between Governor Sule and the Speaker, marking a significant turn of events in the region’s political landscape.
The rerun election in Keana constituency was prompted by an order from the Appeal Court sitting in Abuja in November 2023. The electoral exercise took place in five polling units within the Agaza ward of Keana Local Government Area, specifically Kofar Sarki 001, Kofar Inuwa 002, Central Primary School A 003, Central Primary School B 004, and Kofar Gazagu 005.
Our correspondent observed that during last year’s distribution exercise by INEC, a notable 2,310 residents of the area collected their permanent voter cards, reflecting a palpable interest in the electoral process.
Announcing the outcome of the election in Keana, Dr. Hassan Imam of the Federal University of Lafia, serving as the Returning Officer for the Constituency, disclosed that the APC candidate garnered 557 votes in the by-election, surpassing his closest rival, Basil Osheka of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who secured 470 votes.
Dr. Hassan clarified that the votes obtained by each candidate would be amalgamated with those accrued during the March 18, 2023 general elections. Consequently, the APC candidate now boasts a total of 8,069 votes, while the PDP candidate has 7,917 votes.
In his declaration, Dr. Hassan asserted, “That Adamu Mohammed Omadefu of the APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared the winner and he is returned elected.”
Based on the Political Turmoil Before the State General Election, the state general election, tensions simmered as Hon. Omadefu had found himself embroiled in a battle for supremacy within the APC camp.
According to some political feelers who alleged that reports had surfaced of discord between him and certain APC stakeholders, including a House of Representatives member who withheld support despite the governor’s interventions.
They started that among the myriad challenges, accusations of tribal marginalization plagued Omadefu’s tenure. It was alleged that he had neglected certain tribes, notably the TiV community, within the constituency, leaving areas devoid of government presence. “This perceived neglect threatened his electoral prospects, especially in the Agaza ward, where his defeat seemed imminent.”
Governor Sule, recognising the importance of maintaining stability and unity within the constituency, orchestrated a strategic intervention. Understanding the implications of Omadefu’s defeat, the governor sought avenues to bolster his administration’s strength while fostering inclusivity among diverse tribal communities.
In a surprising turn, the Speaker emerged as a pivotal figure in orchestrating Omadefu’s return. Leveraging his influence and political acumen, the Speaker navigated intricate negotiations, bridging divides within the APC ranks and garnering support for Omadefu’s reinstatement.
According to an APC Chieftain who do not want his name mentioned in Agaza Ward when our Correspondent visited during the election noted that With concerted efforts from Governor Sule, the Speaker, and key stakeholders, paved the path to redemption for Hon. Muhammed Omadefu.
” Let me tell you clearly, if not for the intervention of the governor, speakers and some APC stakeholders in the ward there was no way Omadefu would have won the election. Our people were tied of the neglect for the past years and we made up our mind but the governor Abdullahi Sule convinced us that’s why we changed our mind.
” But all the same now he knows that we can not be taking for granted we are Keana people and we deserved to be treated as one. We don’t have any home apart from here our four father’s lived here gave birth to us here died here and was buried here.”
He further state that their collaborative approach not only secured his political survival but also paved the way for reconciliation and renewed commitment to serve all constituents impartially.
According to some political pundits, Governor Abdullahi Sule’s recent visit alongside the Speaker to the people of Agaza days before the election marked a pivotal moment in the political landscape of Keana.
“Their joint promise resonated deeply with the community, igniting a newfound enthusiasm and support for Hon. Muhammed Omadefu. The governor’s personal endorsement, coupled with the presence of government and party representatives at Omadefu’s rally, further bolstered his electoral prospects.”
Asked why the speaker was interested on Omadefu’s, political Analysts explained that amidst the renewed optimism, the state House of Assembly found itself ensnared in a complex web of political intrigue.
They said the delicate balance of power hinged on the Speaker’s ability to secure his position within the APC. “With the recent court-mandated removal of the former Speaker, Ibrahim Balarabe Abdullahi, and the subsequent ascension of another PDP candidate, the APC faced a precarious numerical disadvantage.”
The affirmation of Hon. Omadefu’s mandate ushered in a seismic shift in the political equation. “With the APC now boasting a slim majority of 10 seats to the PDP’s nine, the stakes were higher than ever.”
They speculated that Governor Sule’s unwavering support for Omadefu signaled a turning point—a commitment to uphold democratic principles and empower grassroots representation.
“As the political landscape evolves, voices across the spectrum echo a singular sentiment: it is time to embrace the tenets of democracy in earnest. With Omadefu’s redemption emblematic of resilience and popular will, the onus lies on leaders to heed the mandate of the people and champion inclusive governance.”
In the aftermath of Hon. Muhammed Omadefu’s triumphant return to office, the echoes of victory reverberate against the backdrop of allegations and accusations.
While the opposition chairman, Hon. Francis Orogu, lauded INEC and security agencies for overseeing a seemingly free and fair election, his commendation was juxtaposed with scathing accusations leveled against the ruling APC.
Hon. Orogu’s accusations struck at the heart of electoral integrity, alleging that the ruling APC engaged in vote buying, offering sums as substantial as 20 thousand naira to sway the electorate.
He argued that the pervasive hunger gripping the populace rendered such enticements irresistible, casting a shadow of doubt over the legitimacy of the electoral process.
In contrast, Hon. Muhammed Omadefu’s response to his victory struck a conciliatory tone, as he extended gratitude to INEC, security agencies, and the people of Agaza for their support.
His pledges to the constituency reverberated with promises of enhanced service delivery and unwavering commitment to addressing their needs in the face of adversity.
As the dust settles and the euphoria of victory fades, the shadows of allegations linger, reminding us of the imperatives of democratic stewardship.
In the crucible of political contestation, the voices of the electorate resonate as a beacon of hope, heralding a future anchored in transparency, accountability, and unwavering commitment to the collective welfare of the people.
Governor Abdullahi Sule’s strategic manoeuvring, alongside the unwavering support of the Speaker and party affiliates, has reshaped the narrative in Keana.
