Subtle political realignments are emerging in Kebbi State ahead of the 2027 general elections, as opposition parties intensify efforts to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.
Findings by DAILY POST indicate that the African Democratic Congress, ADC, alongside the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, both grappling with internal challenges, are exploring strategic options to unseat the incumbent governor ahead of the 2027 elections.
Among the options under consideration is the possibility of forming an alliance or coalition between the ADC and PDP to mount a credible challenge against Governor Nasir Idris.
The move, according to political observers, is seen as a survival strategy by opposition forces struggling to withstand the dominance of the APC in Kebbi State.
We reported that the ADC, which has been at the forefront of opposition activities in the state, has in recent times faced internal restructuring and leadership challenges that have affected its grassroots mobilisation.
Analysts note that the party’s current state makes it difficult to independently challenge the ruling APC without forming strategic partnerships.
The situation has prompted discussions within the ADC on the need to rebuild and strengthen its organisational framework ahead of the elections.
Speaking through its Publicity Secretary, Habibu Abubakar Sambo, the ADC took a swipe at the ruling APC, vowing to challenge its leadership in the state.
He stated that the party would not allow what it described as governance “blunders” to continue unchecked, assuring supporters of a renewed push to reclaim political space.
The renewed posture of the ADC comes amid the growing influence of its leader in the state, former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.
DAILY POST reports that Malami, who emerged as a key opposition figure following his exit from the APC and subsequent political realignment, has remained central to discussions about the 2027 governorship race.
His recent release from custody has further reignited political conversations around his potential role in shaping opposition strategy in Kebbi.
Despite the challenges facing the ADC, the party has maintained that its internal issues are part of a broader restructuring process.
The party, through its Publicity Secretary in the state, Abubakar Musa, described ongoing developments as efforts to strengthen its structures across local government and ward levels.
“Regarding what is happening in Kebbi State, the process currently underway is simply a restructuring of the party and strengthening its structure at the local government and ward levels in preparation for the 2027 general elections,” he said.
Sources within the opposition parties indicate that the PDP is particularly interested in leveraging Malami’s political weight as part of a broader coalition strategy.
Observers believe that Malami remains one of the few figures with the political structure and visibility capable of mounting a serious challenge against the incumbent governor.
The development has, however, generated tension within opposition ranks, with concerns over leadership control and power-sharing arrangements.
Political analysts argue that while an alliance could strengthen the opposition, internal mistrust and conflicting interests may undermine its effectiveness.
They note that coalition politics in Kebbi has historically been difficult due to entrenched loyalties and competing ambitions.
Meanwhile, the APC has dismissed talks of any opposition alliance as inconsequential.
Reacting to the development, the Kebbi APC Youth Vanguard described the opposition’s position as unrealistic and disconnected from political realities in the state.
The group maintained that the APC remains firmly in control, citing its widespread grassroots support and governance record.
Also reacting, the Senior Special Assistant on Radio and Television to Governor Nasir Idris, Zaidu Bala Kofa Sabuwa, dismissed Malami’s chances in the 2027 race.
“By the grace of God, Abubakar Malami will never be the Governor of Kebbi State because the difference between Malami and Governor Nasir Idris is like the difference between heaven and earth. Kebbi State belongs to Idris come 2027, God willing,” he said.
Governor Idris, who is expected to seek a second term in 2027, has continued to enjoy strong backing from within the APC structure in the state.
DAILY POST reports that his administration’s political machinery remains active across the 21 local government areas, further consolidating the party’s dominance.
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Yahaya Sarki, also downplayed the opposition’s chances.
He stated that even a combined effort by the ADC and PDP would not be enough to unseat the incumbent.
According to him, both parties lack the structure, cohesion, and grassroots support required to compete effectively in Kebbi politics.
Sarki further described the proposed alliance as “dead on arrival,” insisting that the APC’s position in the state remains unshaken.
Political observers, however, believe that the 2027 race may not be entirely predictable.
They argue that while the APC currently holds a strong advantage, unexpected alliances and shifting loyalties could alter the political landscape.
Some analysts note that voter sentiment, economic conditions, and internal party dynamics will play crucial roles in shaping the outcome of the election.
For the opposition, the coming months will be critical in determining whether coalition talks translate into a concrete political strategy.
Whether the proposed alliance will materialise into a formidable force or remains a speculative strategy.