Move to Favour Shuaibu Isa Lau Sparks Backlash

Fresh tension is brewing within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State following moves to consider Senator Shuaibu Isa Lau for an automatic ticket ahead of the 2027 Taraba North Senatorial race.

The development has reportedly triggered discontent among party stakeholders and supporters, with many expressing concerns over the implications of such a decision on party during the election.

Senator Lau, who has represented Taraba North since 2015, is believed to be positioning for a fourth term in the Senate. However, some residents and political actors in the zone have voiced dissatisfaction with his performance, questioning the level of impact and visible projects in the constituency.

A stakeholder, Mukhtar Abubakar Abbas, in a statement titled "Enough Is Enough: Taraba North Deserves Real Representation," called for accountability, urging voters to prioritize performance over political loyalty.

"Our communities are still asking: where are the visible projects that reflect years in office? Where is the strong voice defending Taraba North at the national level?" he queried.

Abbas stressed that the next election should be based on measurable impact, adding that leadership must go beyond occupying positions to delivering tangible benefits to the people.

The controversy has also drawn reactions from supporters of former Acting Governor, Senator Sani Abubakar Danladi, who warned against imposing any candidate without broad consultations.

In a statement, the group insisted that any consensus candidate must demonstrate proven performance, capacity, and strong human relations.

They further argued that any aspirant with a history of political disputes involving Senator Danladi may not enjoy the support of their bloc.

"We will not support any arrangement that ignores merit or undermines the sacrifices of party loyalists," the group stated.

Meanwhile, former Governor of Taraba State, Rev. Jolly Nyame, who has declared interest in the senatorial seat, is reportedly unhappy with the development and has threatened to leave the party if the alleged plan is not reconsidered.

Political observers warn that the unfolding crisis could deepen divisions within the APC in Taraba North if not carefully managed, especially as multiple aspirants continue to signal interest in the seat.

Efforts to reach party officials for comments on the alleged automatic ticket arrangement were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.