By Happy Zarokada, Yola
Stakeholders in Southern Adamawa have formally endorsed Kwamoti Laori, the member representing Numan, Demsa, and Lamurde Federal Constituency, for the district’s senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The endorsement was announced during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday in Numan Local Government Area, bringing together representatives from all nine local government areas in the zone.
The convener of the meeting, Ali Burama, who is also the Managing Director of AA Burama Multi-Link Limited, said the decision followed extensive consultations with traditional rulers, political actors, youth groups, and community representatives across Southern Adamawa.
According to Burama, the stakeholders unanimously selected Laori based on his proven leadership qualities, legislative performance, and consistent engagement with constituents.
“We in the southern zone believe in Laori and his leadership. He has the capacity to advocate for improved education, economic development, and youth empowerment,” he said.
The stakeholders emphasized the need for unity and consensus, noting that presenting a single candidate would minimize internal divisions and strengthen the zone’s political influence at the national level.
“Our collective decision is driven by the desire to secure credible and impactful representation for Southern Adamawa. We believe Laori possesses the competence, experience, and vision to deliver democratic dividends,” the group stated.
Burama further highlighted Laori’s performance in the House of Representatives, noting that he has facilitated meaningful projects across all 33 wards in his constituency.
Also speaking, James Iliya, the Adamawa State Commissioner for Information, commended the stakeholders for their consensus decision. He described Laori as a grassroots politician with a strong understanding of the people’s needs.
Iliya stressed the need to prioritize key development areas in the Southern Senatorial District, including the establishment of a tertiary institution, viable skills acquisition centres to promote youth self-reliance, and infrastructure to boost economic growth.
He expressed optimism that Laori would deliver even more if elected to the Senate, adding that the endorsement could significantly shape the dynamics of the forthcoming senatorial race by mobilizing grassroots support.
The stakeholders also called on other political actors in the zone to support the consensus arrangement in the interest of regional development. They urged residents to remain peaceful and actively participate in the democratic process as political activities intensify.
Although Laori has yet to formally declare his intention to run, sources close to him indicate that consultations are ongoing, with an official announcement expected soon.
A major highlight of the meeting was the donation of over twenty million naira by stakeholders to support the purchase of Laori’s expression of interest and nomination forms.