The All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Nasarawa State on May 16, 2026, delivered dramatic upsets, with several high-profile figures losing their bids for tickets to the House of Representatives. The Primary Elections Committee, chaired by Musa Shuaibu Guri, announced winners in four of the state’s five federal constituencies, marking a significant shake-up in the political landscape.
Speaker Danladi Jatau Defeated in Karu/Keffi/Kokona
In the Karu/Keffi/Kokona Federal Constituency, Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Danladi Jatau, was convincingly defeated. Daniel Ogazi emerged victorious with 13,083 votes, while Jatau managed 5,873 votes. Joseph M. Kaura secured 1,429 votes, and Mohamed Nuraini Abdullahi Adamu, son of former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu, polled 769 votes. Mohamed Yakubu Dikko finished with 316 votes.
Two-Term Lawmaker Loses in Nasarawa/Toto
In the Nasarawa/Toto Federal Constituency, two-term member Ari Abdulmumin Muhammad, who served from 2015 to 2023, was defeated. Mohammed Al-Bashir Babae Yarima won with 31,796 votes, far ahead of Muhammad’s 9,039. Abdullahi Jibril Alassi received 3,728 votes, while Dr. Ahmed Wadah Ikaka got 1,888 votes.
Incumbent Jeremia Umaru Falls in Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa Eggon
Another upset occurred in the Akwanga/Wamba/Nasarawa Eggon Federal Constituency. One-term incumbent Jeremia Umaru, who served from 2019 to 2023, placed second with 4,061 votes. Tony Bala Shammah won decisively with 38,333 votes, signaling a strong desire for change among constituents.
Mohammed Ahmed Al-Makura Wins in Lafia/Obi
In the Lafia/Obi Federal Constituency, Mohammed Ahmed Al-Makura, nephew of a former Nasarawa State Governor, was returned elected with 45,000 votes. His victory came through affirmation after fellow aspirant Isaac Ali Kigbu withdrew from the race, ensuring a smooth path to the ticket.
Awe/Doma/Keana Primaries Still Ongoing
The primaries for Awe/Doma/Keana Federal Constituency could not hold on Saturday. The Primary Elections Committee confirmed that the election was still ongoing at the time of filing this report, with results expected soon.
Broader Context of APC Primaries
These upsets reflect a broader trend in the APC primaries across Nigeria, where new faces are emerging and challenging established political figures. Observers attribute this to a growing demand among party members for fresh leadership and accountability. The outcomes in Nasarawa State are likely to influence the general elections in 2027, as the party seeks to consolidate its base.
