The Progressive Youth Alliance (PYA), a group made up of past and former students of Prof Seidu Alidu Mahama, has declared its support for him in the upcoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary in the Tamale Central Constituency.

The primary, scheduled for Saturday, September 6, will select a candidate to replace the late Member of Parliament, Dr Murtala Ibrahim Mohammed, who died in a helicopter crash while serving as Minister of Environment, Science and Technology.

In a statement released on Thursday, September 4, the group said Prof. Alidu Mahama was best placed to carry on the legacy of Dr Murtala.

“This internal contest will determine the parliamentary candidate who will go on to represent the party in the general by-election,” the statement explained.

“We firmly believe that Prof. Seidu Alidu Mahama is the most capable leader to continue Dr. Murtala’s legacy and to represent Tamale Central with dignity, competence, and vision.”

The group highlighted Prof. Alidu’s academic and professional contributions over nearly two decades. He has taught and mentored thousands of students at the University of Ghana, where he became the first Muslim, Northerner, and Dagomba to head the Department of Political Science.

“His career is marked by humility, integrity, and dedication,” the PYA said. “His open-door approach, respect for diversity, and tireless commitment to students and communities speak to his character.”

Beyond academia, Prof. Alidu has also worked with civil society, government institutions, and international partners. The group described him as “widely recognised for his credibility, objectivity, and patriotism,” and said his network and experience made him the right person to bring development projects to the constituency.

Calling on delegates to give him their backing, the group said: “Prof. Alidu Seidu Mahama is number one on the ballot, undoubtedly number one in your hearts, and we believe he is the number one choice to lead the party to victory in the general by-election and beyond.”

The statement said that the upcoming primary is not just about choosing a candidate, but about shaping the future of the constituency. “This primary is more than a contest; it is about securing a future of progress, unity, and visionary leadership for Tamale Central,” it said.

The PYA stated that “Prof. Seidu Alidu Mahama is our choice. Prof. Seidu Alidu Mahama is Tamale Central’s choice. Prof. Seidu Alidu Mahama is Ghana’s choice.”