Former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku
Former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, has hinted at his intention to contest the forthcoming by-election for the vacant Nasarawa North Senatorial seat, pending official declaration by relevant authorities.
Maku gave the indication on Sunday during a strategic meeting with key stakeholders from the five electoral wards in Akun Development Area—Ubbe, Alushi Ginda, Ende, Eva/Washo and Wakma. The delegation visited him at his residence near OLA Hospital to urge him to seek the seat.
While responding to speeches from ward leaders, Maku said he would formally declare his ambition once the National Assembly and the Independent National Electoral Commission declare the seat vacant.
“There is limit to which you can resist the call of your people, therefore I will tell you that this call that has been going on all the places and with the coming today, what I will say is, the vacancy has not been declared by the Senate and INEC, so one cannot declare now. But I can assure your that if my people want me to sweep the floor, I will not reject it,” he said.
He further stressed his commitment to public service and responsiveness to popular demand.
“I am a servant of the people, you cannot choose what the people want to do for you. So, with these calls that are almost universal; people are coming from Keffi zone, from Lafia zone, saying the same thing, I don’t think I have option. It is said the voice of the people is the voice of God,” Maku added.
The over 20-man delegation was led by former Chairman of Akun Development Area, Hon. Francis Kuje. He described Maku as the most suitable candidate for the senatorial seat, citing his leadership qualities, experience, and contributions to societal development.
Other members of the delegation, including Dr. Garba, Baba Ekpu, James Kotso, Peter Azime Kuje, and Solomon Nangba (Pala Pala), also spoke in unison, declaring Maku as the only credible contender for the Nasarawa North Senatorial District bye-election.
They appealed to him to contest the poll, pointing to his political background, leadership capacity, and commitment to the development of Nasarawa State.
The group expressed strong confidence in his ability to represent the district effectively at the National Assembly, noting his track record in public service as a major advantage.
The senatorial seat became vacant following the death of former Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who passed away on December 31, 2025.
Political observers say the declaration of vacancy by the Senate and INEC is expected to set the stage for the highly anticipated bye-election in the district.
