In light of recent events, the MP for Walewale has announced his decision to step down from the 2024 parliamentary race.

Following the chaos during the re-run of the primary election on September 9, where disruptions led to the destruction of ballot papers, the Electoral Commission (EC) could not declare a winner.

In a statement, the MP explained, “I have decided that in the interest of the greater good of the new patriotic party and peace and unity in the Walewale constituency, I will no longer be a candidate for MP in the 2024 elections. I am therefore formally withdrawing from the contest.

“I would like to thank the party for the honour done me in representing my constituency over the last four years and can assure the party of my continued support in the 2024 election campaign.”

He expressed gratitude to the party for the opportunity to serve and assured his continued support in the upcoming elections.

This withdrawal clears the path for Dr. Kabiru Tia Mahama, an advisor to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to be the NPP’s candidate for the Walewale seat in the December 2024 general elections.

The primary in December 2023, which had initially seen Dr. Kabiru narrowly defeating the incumbent MP Hajia Lariba Zuweratu, led to a court battle after Hajia Lariba contested the results, citing electoral misconduct. Though the party had sought to resolve the dispute internally, a court-ordered re-run was held, but the process was marred by violence.

Earlier this year, NPP supporters in the constituency had called for Dr. Bawumia to mediate the issue, warning that prolonged conflict could damage the party’s chances in the upcoming general elections.