By Chesa Chesa
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Mustapha Salihu, has formally declared his intention to contest for the governorship of Adamawa State under the platform of the ruling party, expressing confidence that his preparation and public support will see him clinch the party’s ticket.
Salihu, who is the immediate past APC National Vice Chairman (North East), spoke to journalists in Abuja on Thursday night after submitting his nomination forms ahead of the screening of aspirants by the party for 2027 elections.
He said his decision to join the race was driven by a combination of readiness and opportunity, which he described as critical factors in political success.
“In the game of politics, it’s not about being sure or not being sure. It’s a game of luck, and luck is when preparation meets opportunity. I am prepared, and I have the opportunity to run, so by the grace of God, luck is on my side,” he said.
The Adamawa governorship hopeful added that he remains optimistic about emerging as the party’s candidate, citing divine support and the backing of the people of the state.
Asked whether he is the preferred or “anointed” candidate of party leaders, Salihu declined to make such a claim, saying the decision ultimately rests with the leadership of the party.
“I don’t know that. I think you should ask the leaders,” he stated.
On the mode of primary election to be adopted by the APC, Salihu said his camp is prepared for all possibilities, including direct primaries and consensus arrangements.
“We are ready for both direct primaries and consensus,” he affirmed.
Outlining his vision for Adamawa State, Salihu pledged to sustain and expand on the achievements of the current administration, noting that many development projects require continuity beyond a single tenure.
“Our governor has done wonderfully well in transforming the state over the past seven years. Some landmark projects take 15 to 20 years to complete. These are the kinds of legacy projects we will continue and ensure they are achieved,” he said.
He also emphasized the need for unity across ethnic and religious lines as a foundation for accelerated development.
“We are going to bridge divides between tribes and religions to ensure we work as one people. Without unity, progress is slow. With unity, we can move faster and build on what has already been done,” Salihu added.
Reacting to the likelihood of facing a candidate backed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the general election, Salihu said he is unfazed by potential opponents, stressing that political strategies are not publicly disclosed.
“Political strategies are not laid out in newspapers or on television screens. But I want to believe that we are not scared of any candidate,” he said.
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