The defection of Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday turned into a major political spectacle in Adamawa State, with growing attention on governorship aspirant Abdulrahman Bashir Haske ahead of the 2027 elections.
The grand reception, held at Ribadu Square, attracted a massive crowd of party faithful, political stakeholders, and supporters from across the state, in what observers described as a defining moment in Adamawa’s evolving political landscape.
The event, marked by a vibrant display of APC colours and high-level political presence, is widely seen as a strategic realignment that could strengthen the state’s connection with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and position it to benefit from the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Amid the celebrations, Haske emerged as one of the standout figures of the day, drawing enthusiastic reactions from supporters, particularly youths, whose chants and slogans echoed across the venue. Placards bearing messages of confidence in his leadership were hoisted, while the popular chant “Haske is OK” reverberated through the crowd.
Political observers said the spontaneous show of support reflected Haske’s growing grassroots appeal and increasing visibility within the APC fold. His engagement with communities, especially through initiatives driven by the AB Haske Foundation, has earned him recognition among young people and local stakeholders.
Many attendees described the reception accorded to Haske as a signal of shifting political momentum in the state, with calls for a new generation of leadership centered on inclusiveness, development, and youth empowerment gaining traction.
While the rally primarily celebrated Governor Fintiri’s formal entry into the APC, it also provided a platform for emerging political actors, with Haske’s rising profile adding a new layer to conversations around the 2027 governorship race.
Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima welcomed Fintiri and his supporters into the APC, described the development as a significant boost to the party’s strength and unity.
Similarly, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda commended Fintiri for his leadership and urged him to consolidate the party’s presence in Adamawa by expanding its base and fostering unity among members.
In his remarks, Haske applauded the party leadership for promoting cohesion and pledged his commitment to working with stakeholders to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Adamawa State.
As political consultations and alignments intensify ahead of 2027, the atmosphere at Ribadu Square suggests a growing appetite for new leadership, with Abdulrahman Bashir Haske increasingly emerging as a name to watch in the state’s political future.
