By Daniel Mtindiga, Jalingo

Mr. Hamidu Bakoji has leveled serious allegations against the likely consensus candidate for the Ardo-Kola, Karim-Lamido, and Lau Federal Constituency, accusing incumbent lawmaker Honorable Mohammad Audu Lauya of exploiting religious and tribal sentiments to manipulate State and party leadership despite alleged incompetence and poor human relations.

Bakoji claims Lauya lacked a solid structure before becoming a Member of the House of Representatives and failed to build one during his three-year stay in the NASS. He warns that re-nominating Lauya would be a mistake, potentially costing the APC the seat. He appointed out that some people close to the leadership are more comfortable with him as a light-weight politician to put off heavyweight like Sani.

The controversy deepens with Bakoji urging the governor to watch and analyze closely the voting patterns come 2027 general elections and observe the tribal and religious voting pattern, predicting the Wurkum-Muslim community may reject the governorship candidate if a Muslim candidate is on the ballot.

“This isn’t democracy,” Bakoji declared, criticizing the imposition of unpopular candidates. Further intrigue surrounds the alleged sidelining of former Acting Governor, Senator Sani Abubakar Danladi, rumored to be eyeing a Senate seat for Taraba North.

Bakoji claims the state and party leadership are using Lauya to block Danladi, a Wurkum Muslim, who is growing desperate. The situation is adding layers of religious and tribal tension to the power struggle.

As tensions rise, observers question whether internal party machinations will backfire, handing victory to opposition forces in the upcoming elections.