2027: Tension Grips Kebbi APC Over Rumored Defection of Gov Idris to Atiku’s Coalition

Confusion is currently brewing within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State over rumors suggesting that Governor Nasiru Idris may be planning to dump the party for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 elections.

The speculation gained traction following a viral report listing uIdris among five APC governors allegedly considering an alliance with former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s reelection bid.

Despite the report’s widespread circulation, the Kebbi State government has remained silent for over 48 hours, further fueling suspicions that there may be some truth to the claims.

The silence has only deepened anxiety among APC members and the general public, leaving many uncertain about the governor’s next political move and the state’s political stability.

The News men notes that, despite being in opposition, the PDP maintains a strong foothold in Kebbi State.

All three of the state’s senators Adamu Aliero (North), Yahaya Abdullahi (Central), and Garba Musa Maidoki (South) are members of the PDP.

Former Governor Adamu Aliero, though now with the PDP, continues to exert considerable political influence in the state, with many regarding him as a key player in determining election outcomes.

This strong PDP presence has significantly boosted the party’s relevance in Kebbi politics.

In the tightly contested 2023 governorship election, Governor Idris narrowly defeated his PDP challenger, retired General Aminu Bande, securing 52% of the votes.

The rumors surrounding Governor Idris’s possible defection have sparked a crisis within the APC, with some members reportedly opening communication channels with opposition parties such as the Social Democratic Party (SDP), anticipating potential realignments.

This growing uncertainty is particularly evident in the governor’s home ward, Nassarawa II, where members are increasingly unsure of what lies ahead.

Attempting to douse the tension, Kebbi State APC Chairman Muhammad Zuru issued a public warning, urging party loyalists to shun “emerging political parties,” including the SDP.

“As loyal party members, we must remain steadfast in supporting both our party and government,” Zuru emphasized.

Reactions among APC members have been mixed.

While some members dismissed the rumors as unfounded, others expressed fear that the governor’s defection could soon materialize.

“I don’t believe the rumours,” said Alhaji Sani Bello, a prominent APC figure from Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area. “Governor Idris is firmly rooted in the APC, especially after the hard-fought 2023 victory.”

However, another party member from Nassarawa II, speaking anonymously, voiced concerns:

“The government’s silence is alarming. Things are becoming more serious by the day. If the governor leaves, it could severely weaken the APC in Kebbi.”

Veteran political figure Ahmed Jibril added that internal fractures could prompt further defections:

“There’s a real chance Governor Idris might align with Atiku. The APC is weakened both in Kebbi and nationally. Many of us are already exploring alternatives. Politics is about survival.”

Amid the fears, some APC loyalists are already floating the idea of former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, as a potential successor in 2027, viewing him as a figure capable of reuniting the party.

Though Kebbi has traditionally been an APC stronghold, recent developments have exposed deep divisions within the party.

Meanwhile, efforts to reach Governor Idris’s Special Adviser on Power and Politics, Kabir Sani-Giant, proved unsuccessful.

Sani-Giant recently faced suspension from the APC following allegations that he brought a snake into the Government House to intimidate officials.