Former Secretary of the National Judicial Council (NJC), Barrister Danladi Umar Halilu Envulu-Anza, has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the June 20, 2026 Nasarawa North Senatorial District bye-election.
Envulu-Anza, popularly known as DHE, was formally unveiled by Nasarawa State governor Abdullahi Sule, during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement held at the VIP Lodge in Akwanga, Akwanga Local Government Area.
The event attracted party leaders, elders, traditional rulers and key stakeholders from the three local government areas that make up the senatorial district.
The seat became vacant following the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who passed away in December 2025 in an Indian hospital after a prolonged illness at the age of 52.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sule urged stakeholders to prioritise competence and measurable achievements over sentiment, saying the era of politics based on religion or ethnicity must end.
He cited ongoing infrastructure projects in the state, including the Mararaba dual flyover, as examples of development driven by capacity and vision.
The governor described Envulu-Anza as “a man of competence, capacity and connections,” adding that his profile makes him suitable for legislative responsibilities at the Senate.
Senator Philip Aruwa Gyunka, Chairman of the DHE Campaign Organisation, highlighted the candidate’s public service record, noting his roles as a magistrate in Plateau State, first Chief Registrar of Nasarawa State, and longest-serving Secretary of the National Judicial Council (NJC).
He said Envulu-Anza had consistently used his positions to promote public welfare, including supporting court infrastructure development, facilitating federal employment opportunities for indigenes, and mentoring young professionals.
Elder Timothy Anjide, Chairman of the Nasarawa North Elders Forum, said traditional rulers across the zone had already endorsed the campaign, calling for unity and support for the APC candidate.
Campaign director, Coach Bally, described Envulu-Anza as “a leader of ideas,” adding that his federal connections would help attract development to the district within the short tenure of the bye-election.
The Nasarawa North Senatorial bye-election is scheduled for Friday, June 20, 2026.
