Ayawaso East NDC race opens as late MP’s widow, Baba Jamal files nominations

The contest for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary ticket in Ayawaso East has intensified following the filing of nominations by Hajia Amina Adam, widow of the late Member of Parliament Mahama Naser Toure, and Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed, ahead of the March 3 by-election.

Hajia Amina Adam formally entered the race on the back of what she described as growing calls from constituents to step forward and continue her late husband’s work.

Her nomination filing was met with enthusiasm from supporters, who gathered in large numbers as she officially joined the contest.

She is one of six aspirants seeking the NDC ticket, setting the stage for a closely contested primary.

Among her challengers is Baba Jamal Ahmed, who says his decision to leave his diplomatic post in Nigeria to contest the seat is motivated purely by service. Speaking to journalists after filing his nomination, he dismissed suggestions that his move was driven by personal ambition.

“Let me make it clear, my motivation is to serve not materialistic; it is humanism and service to the people,” he said.

Baba Jamal urged delegates to consider his experience and capacity to deliver development to the constituency, arguing that his contribution would be more impactful at home.

“I believe that my service here will be more useful to my people and also to the nation, even more than my service in Nigeria, not because I don’t regard my position in Nigeria. I hold it in high esteem. When duty calls where you are needed more, you need to respond to it,” he added.

Vetting of candidates is expected to take place shortly, as the party prepares to elect its flagbearer for the by-election triggered by the death of Mahama Naser Toure.

The winner of the NDC primary will face the March 3 by-election, as political activity in the Ayawaso East constituency continues to gather momentum.

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