Political job seekers unfamiliar with Electoral Act, APC Constitution set sights on Barade

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By Benjamin Yuhana

As the 2027 general elections approach, a concerning trend is emerging in Nasarawa State: certain self-serving individuals are working to disrupt the previously peaceful political atmosphere. These elements, driven by personal ambition, have resorted to smear campaigns—deploying unprofessional writers and exploiting unregulated social media platforms to malign perceived threats.

A recent article titled “Baraden Nasarawa: Who is Fooling Who?”—written by an anonymous author and published on an obscure online platform—clearly exemplifies this calculated effort. The piece is nothing more than a poorly veiled attack on Dr. Musa Ahmed Mohammed, the current Accountant General of Nasarawa State. In what can only be described as a hatchet job, the writer demonstrates a glaring lack of understanding of due process and exposes a woeful ignorance of the subject matter.

The growing vitriol directed at Barade is a clear sign of panic—an act of desperation triggered not by any declared ambition, but by the overwhelming calls from the people of Nasarawa urging him to contest the 2027 governorship election.

Though he has not publicly responded to these calls, the fear his potential candidacy generates is already unsettling for those eyeing the same seat. His silence, however, should not be mistaken for indifference. Rather, it reflects his commitment to his current responsibilities as Accountant General and his unwavering loyalty to Governor Abdullahi Sule, under whose administration he continues to deliver diligently. The smear campaigns appear to be a calculated attempt to damage his reputation before he even considers stepping into the race.

One of the most baffling points raised by the writer is the supposed unsuitability of Dr. Musa Ahmed Mohammed for the role of Accountant General due to a “controversial stint in the legislature.” This criticism is not only weak but also irrelevant.

Contrary to claims questioning his suitability for the position of Accountant General, Dr. Musa Ahmed Mohammed (Baraden Nasarawa) is a certified and chartered accountant with over 32 years of experience in accounting and public service. His professional journey spans both technical and academic spheres, including a PhD in Accounting and Finance and a career as a lecturer. Had he remained in the federal civil service without resigning to join politics, he would be just two years away from retirement, a testament to his long-standing commitment and seniority.

Notably, three of his contemporaries are currently serving as federal permanent secretaries while some as directors in the federal civil service not even the state-further underscoring his qualification and stature. The criticisms leveled against him, therefore, appear baseless and disconnected from the realities of his career and credentials.

Ironically, the same writer does not question Barade’s professional qualifications. Instead, he attempts to resurrect outdated political disagreements from Barade’s time as Speaker of the State House of Assembly, forgetting that leadership involves dialogue, occasional conflict, and eventual resolution.

Come to think of it, Barade’s leadership in the State Assembly enjoyed a cordial relationship with the executive arm under the late Governor Aliyu Akwe Doma, largely because both leaders belonged to the same political party and shared similar ideological leanings. In contrast, political disagreements are more likely where differing ideologies exist—as was the case during the Umaru Tanko Al-Makura era under the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Even then, both arms of government eventually found common ground in the interest of peace and development in the state.

Today, both men are stalwarts of the governing party and continue to contribute meaningfully to strengthening its platform and advancing the state’s development. To now dredge up past events merely to score cheap political points is nothing short of mischief.

Targeting Barade for his appointment is, by extension, a direct affront to Governor Abdullahi Sule, who made the appointment based on competence and proven integrity. This decision reflects the governor’s vision for transparency, fiscal prudence, and development—objectives that have seen considerable progress under the current administration. It is therefore mischievous to use outdated political episodes to undermine this shared vision.

On the issue of Barade’s alleged governorship ambition, the writer claims that he is covertly campaigning while still serving as Accountant General. Yet, no formal declaration has been made by Barade. Speculating about ambition and accusing him of violating political ethics is both premature and unfounded.

It is important to note that no provision of the Constitution forbids citizens from encouraging or persuading individuals to contest elections. The democratic framework allows the electorate to freely express their preferences, including urging capable individuals to seek public office.

However, the final decision rests solely with the individual concerned. In the case of Barade, while there may be growing public sentiment urging him to run, he has not formally declared any intention to contest. Until such a declaration is made, any assumptions about his candidacy remain speculative and without legal or constitutional standing.

Even if he chooses to run, the legal framework guiding such a transition is clear. According to Sections 66(1)(f), 107(1)(f), 137(1)(g), and 182(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, any public office holder aspiring to contest in an election is only required to resign at least 30 days before the election. The Electoral Act 2022 and the APC Constitution reinforce this requirement.

These legal provisions are publicly accessible, and any writer with integrity would have consulted them before making misleading assertions. Unfortunately, the faceless critic chose to misinform the public, perhaps hoping to stir discord or gain favour with certain political interests.

But as the late Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello, once said: “The truth will remain as constant as the Northern Star.” No amount of blackmail or propaganda can obscure Barade’s professional record or his contributions to Nasarawa State’s development.

As we approach the next political cycle, it is important for the people of Nasarawa to stay informed and not fall prey to desperate misinformation tactics. The state deserves a politics of ideas and accountability—not baseless attacks from political jobbers and junk writers.

Yuhana writes from New Nyanya, Karu LGA, Nasarawa State.