The postponement of the APC primaries of Adamawa central senatorial zone has become a blessing for the ambition of Aliyu Abdulhameed Abbati as more groups registered their support with his ambition.
Amidst uncertainty and allegations of deep rift between Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri over a preferred candidate, the people of the zone say Abbati came as a neutral factor not hobbled by the baggage of a godfather ahead of the primaries.
During separate meetings across the senatorial zone, a number of stakeholders and groups expressed total and profound support for Abbati’s aspiration noting that out of the array of personalities vying for the Senate position only Abbati cares to meet them.
”I learnt that about five people have expressed desire to represent us at the Senate, but out of them, only Aliyu Abdulhameed Abbati cares to come down to our village to interact with us.
”While others go to sleep thinking that Godfathers will anoint them, Abbati who trust the real God is here seeking our support and God will fulfill his desires. We are going to give him our total and unflinching support,” a resident of Wuro Ahi in Fufore local government, Bapullo Sani said.
In another agrarian community of Zah, in Hong local government, the people expressed appreciation for Abbati’s visits saying it is a sign that he will serve them when elected.
”For Abbati’s to brave the odds and meet us here, means a lot. We thought we no longer matter as politicians never come to us even during disasters. For Abbati to come here amidst security concerns and uncertainty means a lot to us. We shall pay him back with our votes,” residents of the area including Hella Yaduma and Susuti Manzo said.
The same chorus of support across the seven local governments of the zone continued to trail Abbati’s visits as more residents caution the critical stakeholders to be wary of imposition and allow the democratic process of free and fair primaries to take root.
In the same vein, residents of Jimeta have equally expressed similar sentiments saying that among those aspiring to represent the area only Abbati was visible.
”It is surprising that I learnt about six people want to represent us at the Senate, yet only Abbati is visible. He has been visiting various communities, groups and even individuals, holding press conferences and mounting campaign posters across strategic places.
”But while he is doing that, the others are no where to be found meaning that even if they get the position, they are goin to be bench warmers since they have not entered into any covenant with the people.
”For that reason we the people of Jimeta are sticking our heads with one of our own who has shown signs of responsible leadership. It is time for Jimeta to also taste the fruits of the support it has accorded others, it is time for Abbati,” a resident of Jimeta Bello Salisu said.