From Adeko Ukpa

A former Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Professor Mohammed Sani Haruna, has credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with playing a pivotal role in resolving long-standing institutional challenges that contributed to his success at the agency.

The former NASENI boss spoke during a consultative meeting in Keffi with stakeholders and support groups drawn from the three senatorial zones, where he sought their direction on whether to proceed with his ambition or withdraw.

Former Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI),Prof. Mohammed Sani Haruna, addressing his supporters, during the stakeholders meeting with representatives of statewide support groups and associations, held at his Gubernatorial Campaign Office Keffi, yesterday.

Speaking on his tenure, Haruna said the achievements recorded at NASENI would be incomplete without acknowledging Tinubu’s intervention, even before he became President.

“This success story is incomplete if you don’t mention the contribution of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu when he was yet to be the President,” Haruna said.

He explained that for over three decades after the establishment of NASENI, the agency struggled to realise its statutory funding, prompting efforts to develop a framework for the assessment and collection of the NASENI Industrial Levy.

According to him, the process encountered major setbacks when a new leadership at the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) opposed the initiative.

“We ran into hitches for 34 years after the establishment of NASENI. Its statutory funding was not realised, and we developed a template for the commencement of the assessment and collection of the NASENI Industrial Levy. One of his trusted associates was appointed as the new chairman of FIRS, Babatunde Fowler, who came in and objected to it. He even refused to grant us an audience or allow any continuation,” Haruna said.

Haruna noted that he subsequently sought the intervention of Tinubu at his Lagos residence, facilitated by his associate, Tunde Rahman, alongside an Arewa youth leader, Alhaji Mohammed Yakubu.

“I then went to meet President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — at a time when he was not even a contestant — at his residence in Lagos. Tunde Rahman, my good friend, who is still an aide to President Tinubu, took me to him. I was accompanied by a leader of Arewa Youth, Alhaji Mohammed Yakubu. They are all alive,” he recounted.

He added that following discussions at Tinubu’s annual birthday colloquium, the issue was eventually resolved.

“After attending and contributing to the annual colloquium to mark his birthday, a meeting was held and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu listened to us, and eventually, the industrial levy issue was resolved. So, if you are celebrating our contribution, you should also remember the contribution of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Haruna said.

Speaking further, Haruna declared that he will not step down for Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada in the Nasarawa State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship race, despite the reported endorsement of Wadada by Governor Abdullahi Sule.

He told the gathering that his decision would be guided by their collective position.

“If you are resolved that we shall accept the verdict and withdraw from this struggle, I will vote ‘aye.’ If the decision of this meeting is that we shall go to the primaries, that is not my problem. That is the essence of this meeting,” he said.

After deliberations, stakeholders across the three zones unanimously urged him to remain in the race and test his popularity at the party’s primaries.

Accepting the outcome, Haruna said he would abide by their decision and move ahead with his campaign.

“When the government announced its decision, the aspirants in this forum agreed that we will consult our supporters and critical stakeholders and then take a unanimous decision. That is the reason why you did not hear from me. Your verdict has determined our next line of action, and I hereby accept to contest the primaries. We will be having our rally on Wednesday,” he said.

He defended his right to contest, citing his contributions to the formation and growth of the APC.

“I provided financial support to the Congress for Progressive Change and the establishment of the party. Some chairmen and officials are alive to attest to how we supported the establishment of party offices across local governments. I started my APC from the national. If this forum succeeds, even if I am not the governor, I should celebrate it because it is my initiative,” he said.

Haruna also addressed the issue of succession, noting that earlier expectations regarding a preferred candidate had not been met.

“We gave a blanket cheque that the governor could select anyone among those that would have our support based on certain expectations, but the situation has changed,” he said.

He maintained that his actions were not in defiance of party authority but rooted in democratic principles.

“We are not disobedient to constitutional authority. We are in the party and we are working for its success. If the primaries are free, fair and transparent, we will accept whatever Allah has decided as the verdict,” he said.

Stakeholders who spoke at the meeting cited zoning equity, Haruna’s track record, and his grassroots appeal as reasons for backing his candidacy.

From Nasarawa North, Suleyman Amgbashi emphasised the need for micro-zoning within Nasarawa West, noting that some local governments, such as Karu, had yet to produce a governor.

From the Southern zone, Barrister Ibrahim Adega said the absence of consensus made a primary contest inevitable.

“The governor has a preferred candidate, but that does not automatically make the candidate the choice of everyone. Since there is no consensus, there must be a contest. We told him clearly to go to the primary. We are ready for the contest,” he said.

Other speakers, including former APC chairman in Keffi Local Government, Mohammed Bello, and Rev. Dr. Pastor Benjamin Baka, described Haruna as a leading aspirant with verifiable achievements in public service and a strong support base across the state.

They expressed confidence that his leadership experience, particularly his record at NASENI, positions him as a formidable contender in the upcoming APC governorship primaries in Nasarawa State.

From Adeko Ukpa, Abuja

Political activist, Comrade Timi Frank, has called on the United States government to investigate and sanction the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over alleged actions capable of undermining Nigeria’s democracy.

Frank’s demand followed a viral video in which Gbajabiamila was quoted as telling Hon Leke Abejide, during his wife’s 50th birthday that: “Don’t come to APC. Stay in ADC and scatter them. We like what you’re doing… stay in ADC and win your election… bring Bala Gombe, and we’ll support him. Good luck in court.”

Describing the remarks as “reckless” and dangerous, the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said they point to a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition parties and erode democratic institutions.

“Your statement, as Chief of Staff, raises serious concerns about the determination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s regime to truncate democracy,” he said, adding that “inference can be made that there is an infringement on the independence of the judiciary.”

He warned that any suggestion that courts could be influenced “undermines public confidence in democratic institutions,” citing references to political actors, including Leke Abejide, as requiring clarification to avoid “dangerous interpretations.”

Frank argued that Gbajabiamila’s comments effectively confirm the Presidency’s involvement in crises rocking opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“When a Chief of Staff speaks, it reflects the body language of the President. This points to a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition and consolidate power,” he said.

He further claimed that state influence, including the use of the judiciary, is being deployed against opposition parties. “The audacity of the statement suggests nothing will happen even if opposition parties are destabilised. That is dangerous,” he added.

Frank described Gbajabiamila as “an alter ego of the President” who had “displayed the arrogance of power,” insisting that public office holders must uphold restraint, respect for the rule of law and constitutional order.

He also urged U.S. authorities to probe Gbajabiamila’s activities and financial dealings.

“As an American citizen, he should be held accountable. We want to know if he is meeting his tax obligations in line with his earnings in Nigeria,” Frank said, describing him as “a bad ambassador of the United States.”

“We want to be sure that all earnings, including those from official and business engagements in Nigeria, are properly declared and taxed,” he added.

On accountability, Frank insisted resignation was the only honourable option.

“We call for your resignation with immediate effect. If such a statement were made in the United States, the official involved would have resigned forthwith,” he said.

He disclosed plans to petition the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, stressing that “those entrusted with leadership must reflect humility, constitutional awareness and respect for separation of powers.”

“Power is transient, but institutions must endure. Any comment that diminishes their independence must be corrected,” he added.

The call comes amid rising concerns over the stability of Nigeria’s multiparty system and allegations of increasing pressure on opposition parties.

From Adeko Ukpa, Abuja

The pursuit of peaceful coexistence, unity, and continuous industrial development of Nasarawa state, would be given top priority by a former Executive Vice Chairman Chief Executive of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Professor Mohammad Sani Haruna, if voted as governor, it was learnt yesterday.

Professor Haruna disclosed this in Keffi, during a symposium organised in his honour.

He declared that his decision to seek the governorship of Nasarawa State is driven by a desire to deploy his experience in technology, public service and development planning to transform the state’s economy.

L-R: Former Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Prof. Mohammed Sani Haruna with Former Clerk to the National Assembly/Guest Speaker, Dr. Salisu Abubakar Maikasuwa, during the 2026 Western Zone Prof. Haruna’s Symposium organised by Nasarawa State Concerned Democrats held at Keffi, yesterday

Prof. Haruna emphasised that peace and unity would remain the foundation of his administration if elected, noting that Nasarawa’s diversity must be harnessed as a strength rather than a source of division.

“Peace and harmonious coexistence are fundamental. Without peace, nothing meaningful can be achieved,” he said.
“God created us in different tribes and languages so we can understand and benefit from one another. The best among us is the one who cares for humanity.”

He stressed that the state must move away from dependence on raw materials and embrace industrialisation.

“What Nasarawa needs is a manufacturing and industrial economy that can sustain development,” he said.
“We must harness our resources and turn them into useful products. You cannot develop by exporting raw materials and importing finished goods.”

The governorship aspirant pledged to sustain ongoing infrastructure projects being championed by Governor Abdullahi Sule, while expanding industries to create jobs, empower youths and drive economic growth.

Haruna said his aspiration is not about personal ambition but a commitment to service and sustainable development.

“It is important to ask why I even ventured into politics and aspire to lead Nasarawa State, if God makes it possible by His grace,” he said.
“It is not about seeking a name. If I want a name, I will aim for a Nobel Prize. This is about service.”

“My agenda is to ensure sustainability of the current developmental trajectory, expand infrastructure, and promote industries for employment generation, youth empowerment and skills development using science, technology and innovation,” he added.

Haruna highlighted his extensive career spanning technical, managerial and leadership roles, including his tenure at NASENI, where he said he worked with successive administrations and drove innovation.

“I started as a technician, a craftsman, an engineer, and rose through the ranks to leadership,” he said.
“I have worked across Nigeria, across Africa and globally. I have seen what works and what does not.”

He recalled how he successfully secured support from state governors for NASENI’s funding framework, describing it as evidence of his ability to build consensus.

“I went round the states and presented what they stand to gain, and they agreed. Development requires engagement and understanding,” he added.

The professor disclosed that he has already developed a comprehensive blueprint for Nasarawa State, based on detailed assessments across sectors.

“We have taken stock of education, health, agriculture, infrastructure—everything,” he said.
“If there are 30 schools in a local government, we know the condition of each—those that need classrooms, those without water, those without facilities.”

He explained that the approach would eliminate guesswork in governance.

“Development must not be based on assumptions. It must be based on needs assessment. You cannot claim to improve education by building classrooms where they are not needed,” he said.

Haruna also pledged to build on existing achievements in the state, particularly in infrastructure and economic development.

“The ongoing infrastructural development in Nasarawa State is something we must sustain,” he said.
“Even if it is not me, whoever becomes governor must continue on that path.”

Haruna urged party stakeholders and residents of the state to support his aspiration, promising inclusive governance and measurable progress.

“If you give me the opportunity, I will serve with commitment and ensure that Nasarawa achieves sustainable development,” he said.
“If you don’t, I will still be satisfied that I offered my service.”

Stakeholders, during the 2026 Western Zone Prof. Haruna’s Symposium organised by Nasarawa State Concerned Democrats held at Keffi, yesterdayEarlier, the guest speaker at the symposium, Dr. Abubakar Salisu Maikasuwa delivered a lecture on democracy, governance and leadership, stressing that credible elections and accountable leadership are the bedrock of development.

“Democracy is government of the people, by the people and for the people, but it goes beyond that,” he said.
“It includes rule of law, protection of human rights, and effective management of public resources.”

He added that good governance requires participation, accountability and strategic vision.

“You cannot achieve democracy merely by establishing institutions like the legislature, executive and judiciary. The way they function determines the outcome,” he noted.

Maikasuwa emphasised the role of leadership in shaping society.

“Leadership is a decisive factor. Societies need competent, honest, visionary and empathetic leaders,” he said, warning against “selfish, nepotistic and arrogant leadership.”

He also linked development to citizens’ welfare.

“Sustainable development must translate into real benefits—food, shelter, healthcare, education, employment and basic services,” he said.

Earlier, one of the organisers of the Engr. Prof Mohammad Sani Haruna
Western Zone
Symposium 2026 with the
theme: “Creating Political Awareness for sustainable Development” Hon. Kasim T. Kasim, said the symposium was convened by supporters and well-wishers to provide a platform for interaction between the aspirant and stakeholders.

“This is an opportunity for party leaders, members and supporters to engage directly, ask questions and understand the vision,” he said on behalf of the Nasarawa State Concerned Democrats that organised the event.

He noted that participants were drawn from across five local government areas in Nasarawa West Senatorial Zone, reflecting broad-based interest in the political future of the state.

The symposium ended with calls for unity among party members and sustained engagement as political activities gather momentum ahead of upcoming elections.