Dr Aliyu Tala Safiyanu, who was listed as the Social Democratic Party, SDP, candidate for Doma North State Constituency in Nasarawa State, has vowed to challenge his reported substitution on the final list of candidates published by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
Mr Safiyanu, who alleged that he neither withdrew from the race nor authorised anyone to withdraw his candidature on his behalf, said he had formally raised objections to the development and called on relevant party authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the substitution.
In a statement addressing his supporters, the politician urged them to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding, insisting that the publication of the final list did not mean the end of his political ambition.
He said he remained committed to pursuing all available legal remedies to challenge the reported substitution and seek the restoration of his candidature.
“I am aware of the concerns and reactions following the publication of the final list of candidates by INEC, which reportedly reflects the substitution of my name as the SDP candidate for Doma North in the 2027 general election.
“I urge everyone to remain calm, peaceful, steadfast, and hopeful. This development does not mean that our struggle is over, and I remain committed to pursuing every lawful avenue to protect our mandate,” he said.
Mr Safiyanu argued that his reported removal from the list raised questions about compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, particularly those governing the withdrawal and substitution of candidates.
Citing Section 31 of the Act, he said a candidate seeking to withdraw from an election must submit a written notice signed by the candidate, accompanied by a sworn affidavit, to the political party that nominated him.
He added that the party was required to forward the withdrawal documents to INEC within the period prescribed by law.
The politician also cited Section 33 of the Act, which he said restricts political parties from changing candidates whose names have been submitted under Section 29, except in cases of death or withdrawal.
According to him, the law provides for another primary election within 14 days to produce a replacement candidate where either of those circumstances arises.
“ In my case, I maintain that I have neither withdrawn my candidature nor authorised anyone to do so on my behalf,” he said.
He added that he had formally objected to the reported substitution and called on the appropriate party authorities to investigate the matter and address it in accordance with the law.
Mr Safiyanu expressed confidence in the judicial process, saying he believed that every legitimate grievance deserved a fair hearing.
The politician also denied allegations circulating in some quarters that he had received money to step down from the race.
“I wish to state categorically that these allegations are false. I have not sold my mandate, and I have not voluntarily stepped down from the contest,” he said.
Describing himself as a political scientist, Mr Safiyanu said his decision to seek election was motivated by a desire to address the challenges facing the constituency and contribute to its development.
He said his political ambition was not a business transaction, adding that the trust and confidence of his supporters were not commodities for sale.
According to him, Doma North deserves purposeful representation, accessible leadership, improved opportunities for young people, support for women and vulnerable citizens, and sustainable community development.
He urged his supporters, including youths, women, elders and political associates, not to allow rumours, anxiety or provocation to derail their collective aspirations.
The politician warned against insults, threats, violence and other actions capable of undermining peace in the constituency, insisting that the dispute should be pursued through lawful channels.
“I assure you that I will continue to pursue the appropriate legal channels to challenge the reported substitution and seek the restoration of our mandate, subject to the determination of the competent authorities,” he said.
He thanked his supporters for their solidarity and urged them to remain united and disciplined while awaiting the outcome of the legal process.
“The struggle continues, peacefully and lawfully,” he added.