Kabiru Bello Bandawaire, the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate for Taraba North, has firmly rejected claims that he has been replaced as the party’s flag bearer, asserting that he remains the duly nominated candidate and will not withdraw from the upcoming election. Speaking on Saturday in Jalingo, the state capital of Taraba, Bandawaire dismissed media reports suggesting the APC had substituted his name with that of incumbent Senator Shuibu Isa Lau, calling the allegations false and misleading.
Bandawaire emphasized that he was legally nominated and recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and that no official communication from the party has informed him of any replacement. He stressed that he has not submitted any letter of withdrawal and has no intention of stepping aside for any individual. “I will not withdraw from the senatorial race to represent Taraba North Senatorial District. I am the candidate and will not step aside for any individual,” he declared.
He further stated that he cannot abandon the mandate given to him by the people of Taraba North. “I am not aware of any replacement, and the party has not communicated such a decision to me,” Bandawaire added, reiterating his commitment to the race. The APC candidate pointed out that the Electoral Act outlines a clear process for candidate substitution, which requires the original candidate to voluntarily withdraw before a replacement can be made.
Bandawaire insisted that he has not indicated any intention to withdraw, and therefore, any attempt to replace him without following due process would be unlawful and undemocratic. “I do not look like someone who will withdraw from the race, and that mandate remains mine. The party must respect due process,” he said. He urged the public to disregard unverified reports and remain confident in the legitimacy of his candidacy.
The candidate also warned against actions that could undermine the electoral process, stressing that any replacement must strictly comply with legal provisions. “I wish to inform the people of Taraba that my name has not been replaced by anyone. I remain the senatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress for Taraba North,” he affirmed.
As the 2023 general elections draw closer, the clarity of candidate nominations and adherence to electoral laws remain critical for public trust. Bandawaire’s firm stance highlights the importance of transparency and legal compliance in Nigeria’s political landscape, especially in high-stakes senatorial races like Taraba North. The outcome of this contest could influence the political dynamics in the North-East region, making Bandawaire’s continued candidacy a significant development.
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