The political landscape of Adamawa Central witnessed a major shift on Saturday, May 23, as Comrade Mustapha Salihu secured a sweeping victory in the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election, emerging as the party’s flag bearer for the district ahead of the forthcoming general elections.
The former APC National Vice Chairman (North-East) dominated the primary contest conducted across the seven local government areas of the zone, polling an overwhelming 147,219 votes to defeat eight other contenders in what party officials and observers described as a decisive mandate.
The outcome of the primary has further strengthened Salihu’s influence within the APC structure in Adamawa State, particularly following months of intense political consultations and realignments within the party.
Official results released at the end of the exercise showed that Salihu defeated his closest rival, Saidu Hayatu Galadima, who secured 32,436 votes.
Other aspirants trailed significantly behind, with Abdulhamid Abbati polling 14,833 votes and Hafsatu Ibrahim Modibbo recording 9,679 votes.
Aishatu Aliyu garnered 6,179 votes, while Umar Buba Bindi received 3,930 votes. Rabi Andrew polled 2,620 votes, Aminu Iya Abbas secured 2,182 votes, and Abdulazeez Murtala Nyako finished with 1,372 votes.
Political analysts say the wide margin in the results reflects Salihu’s strong grassroots network and longstanding influence within the APC across the North-East region.
Salihu’s emergence comes months after he stepped down from the Adamawa State governorship race in support of the APC’s eventual governorship candidate, Ahmed Galadima. His decision at the time was widely interpreted as a strategic move aimed at preserving unity within the party.
Speaking with journalists shortly after his declaration, Salihu explained that his decision to seek the senatorial ticket was motivated by the need to further strengthen the APC and consolidate internal cohesion ahead of the elections.
He described the outcome of the primary as a victory for party unity, democracy, and collective commitment among APC members in Adamawa Central.
Acceptance Speech and Appreciation
In his acceptance speech, the APC chieftain expressed gratitude to party faithful, supporters, and members of his campaign organisation, “Kowa Na Mu Ne,” for what he called their dedication, loyalty, and sacrifices throughout the campaign period.
Salihu also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership and creating an atmosphere that allowed party members to participate freely in the electoral process.
The senator-elect hopeful further acknowledged the roles played by the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri in maintaining peace and stability during the conduct of the primary election.
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According to him, the peaceful atmosphere across the state contributed significantly to the credibility and success of the exercise.
Implications for APC in Adamawa
Observers believe Salihu’s victory may signal a renewed phase for the APC in Adamawa Central, especially considering his political experience, national profile, and strong connections within the ruling party hierarchy.
As a former National Vice Chairman of the APC in the North-East, Salihu has remained a prominent figure in regional politics and party administration. His emergence is expected to energize the APC base in Adamawa Central as preparations begin for the main senatorial contest.
Party stakeholders have also described the outcome as an indication that the APC is consolidating its internal structures in Adamawa State following previous political disagreements and leadership tussles.
With the primaries concluded, attention is now expected to shift toward broader campaign activities as political parties position themselves for what promises to be a keenly contested senatorial election in Adamawa Central.
