Iddrisu Mohammed, popularly known as “Abɛ” or “Abe,” remains without a political appointment nearly 18 months into President John Mahama’s administration, despite his significant contributions to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Daboya-Mankarigu Constituency.
Abɛ, a prominent grassroots mobilizer and local intellectual, rose to prominence when he contested the NDC parliamentary primary in May 2023. He lost by a narrow margin of 13 votes to Hon. Alhaji Lawyer Shaibu Mahama Obei, who later won the 2024 general election to become the Member of Parliament for the constituency.
Following his primary defeat, party members and the NDC communications bureau widely commended Abɛ for his loyalty. He worked relentlessly to help secure the party’s victory in the general elections and is known within local circles for committing personal resources to both the growth of the NDC and the socio-economic welfare of Daboya-Mankarigu.
However, his absence from government appointments has sparked discussion among party faithful. Many supporters who expected President Mahama to recognise his hard work and sacrifices have been left questioning the decision. While some attribute it to the will of Allah, others argue that the party has overlooked a faithful leader in the constituency.
Addressing the matter on his birthday, June 2, 2026, Abɛ expressed continued faith in President Mahama’s administration and the party’s leadership.
“I believe in President Mahama and the decisions of the party. Political appointment is the will of God, and when He doesn’t give you, there is nothing you can do,” he stated, quoting Surah Ar-Rahman, Chapter 55 of the Quran: “So which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?”
Constituents in Daboya-Mankarigu, a historically NDC-dominant area, say the constituency has been declining since 2016. They cite the perceived neglect of potential leaders and grassroots mobilizers, coupled with inadequate central government projects.
Parliamentary election results since 2012:
- 2012: Baani Abudu Nelson (NDC) – 8,275 votes (54.30%), defeated Tika Samuel Yeyu (NPP) – 6,672 votes (43.78%).
- 2016: Shaibu Mahama (NDC) – 9,208 votes (51.46%), defeated incumbent Tika Samuel Yeyu (NPP) – 8,589 votes (48.00%).
- 2020: Mahama Asei Seini (NPP) – 14,391 votes (59.61%), unseated incumbent Shaibu Mahama (NDC) – 9,751 votes (40.39%).
- 2024: Shaibu Mahama (NDC) – 12,739 votes (50.28%), defeated Samuel Yeyu Tika (NPP) – 12,596 votes (49.72%).
As the NDC administration continues, Abɛ remains regarded as a dedicated activist and intellectual whose grassroots efforts are central to NDC activities in the North Gonja District.
By: Saeed Kagbal/newsalertgh.com
