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2027: Zonal Arrangement Will Boost Nasarawa’s Unity, Stability, and Progress — Ex-SSG, Chief Philip Dada
By David Odama
Chief Philip Dada, fondly called the Ajiyan Karu, is an elder statesman, APC chieftain, and traditional title holder known for his commitment to the unity and development of Nasarawa State.
Respected in the state’s political circles, Dada is now a strong advocate for the Western Senatorial Zone’s bid to produce the next governor in 2027. He emphasizes fairness, justice, equity, inclusiveness, and cross-zone consensus as the foundation for Nasarawa’s progress.
In this interview, he discusses zoning, political fairness, and the importance of broad-minded politics.
On why the Western Zone should produce the next governor:
“It is our turn in 2027, as all three zones have had their chance. But we cannot achieve this alone — we must lobby, negotiate, and build broad-based support from stakeholders across all zones for shared progress,” Dada said.
On the Western Zone delegation to Governor Sule:
“The visit, led by Senator Abdullahi Adamu, was to seek the governor’s backing for our zoning aspiration and show that the Western Zone is united and capable of producing the next governor. It was about advocacy, solidarity, and demonstrating commitment to equity.”
On zoning’s place in Nasarawa politics:
“Zoning aligns with the democratic spirit of Nigeria. Our past rotational leadership has maintained unity, peace, and balance among the zones. Upholding this principle ensures fairness, participation, and a sense of belonging for all.”
To aspirants from other zones:
“I urge them to show sportsmanship and support a fair rotation that benefits everyone. Democracy thrives on negotiation and consensus-building, not division.”
On Governor Sule’s role:
“Governor Sule himself benefited from zoning and has pledged his support to the Western Zone. His endorsement can help mobilize consensus, build trust, and ensure stability.”
Addressing fears that zoning stifles merit:
“Zoning, when well-managed, promotes fairness and inclusiveness. It reduces friction and strengthens unity through a clear and peaceful succession framework.”
Steps being taken by the Western Zone:
“We are engaging stakeholders across all zones, fostering dialogue with party leaders, and encouraging aspirants to present people-focused platforms that resonate statewide.”
On optimism for 2027:
“I am optimistic, but success requires diligence, advocacy, and hard work. We have the backing of our zone and are ready to engage all parts of the state.”
Message to Nasarawa people:
“Let fairness guide our politics. Respect zoning, support equitable leadership, and focus on issue-based campaigns. Unity will make Nasarawa stronger and more prosperous.”
On sustaining zoning through governance:
“Accountability and good governance are non-negotiable. I recommend that the zoning principle be formally adopted as a power rotation policy in the state to reduce political tension and strengthen unity.”
On Governor Sule’s achievements:
Dada praised Governor Sule’s transformative projects, including road construction, market development, bridges, upgraded health and education facilities, enhanced security, and industrialization efforts in mining and agriculture. “These projects are distributed fairly across all zones, proving that good governance can unite and develop the state. A governor from the Western Zone can sustain and expand these gains,” he said.
