Kebbi 2027: Malami’s Quiet Moves Unsettle Governor Idris’s Camp

The sudden appearance of campaign posters featuring former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, in various parts of Kebbi State and online has triggered new political tensions ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.

This move appears to have rattled the camp of the current governor, Nasir Idris.

The posters, which suggest Malami may be eyeing the governorship seat, have reignited debates about power rotation in the state, the performance of the current government, and long-standing dominance by Kebbi Central, which has consistently produced governors since 1991.

Governor Idris, elected in 2023 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), is serving his first term and is widely expected to seek re-election following a trend where no sitting governor in Kebbi has ever lost a second term bid.

Idris, a former National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers and ex-Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, rose to power with strong support from civil servants and grassroots communities.

However, his path to re-election could be more challenging than those of past governors. Growing insecurity, including threats from the Lakurawa terrorist group, and a revitalized opposition are likely to complicate his second-term ambitions.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains strong in the state, having secured all three senatorial seats in the last elections—despite the governorship being held by the APC. This rare outcome hints at cracks in the ruling party and underscores the opposition’s influence.

Though Malami has not officially declared his candidacy, sources say he is weighing his options, including a possible switch to the PDP if denied the APC ticket. “Malami isn’t desperate, he’s strategic,” one insider said.

Complicating matters is the role of former governor and political heavyweight, Senator Adamu Aliero, now aligned with the PDP. His strained relationship with Governor Idris and influence in the state could significantly shape the 2027 race.

The prospect of Malami entering the race has divided opinions within the APC. While some dismiss him for lacking grassroots support, others argue he shouldn’t be underestimated, citing his influence among national elites and his quiet political buildup since 2023.

An APC leader in Birnin Kebbi, Shehu Bashir, said Malami lacks local appeal, noting, “He has influence in Abuja, not in our communities. People want relatable leaders.” But another party figure, Salif Moussa from Arewa Dandi, warned against writing Malami off, calling him “a strategist” with a thoughtful game plan.

Malami, from Kebbi Central, had shown interest in the 2023 race but withdrew, making way for Idris to emerge as APC’s candidate.

His reappearance via campaign posters has reignited intra-party tensions and renewed calls for the governorship to shift to Kebbi North or South. Many argue that it’s time for a change, as Kebbi Central has dominated since 1999.

A youth leader from Yauri in Kebbi South, Musa Dankande, stressed the need for fairness, saying, “It’s not about ethnicity or religion; our region deserves a chance.”

Though Malami hasn’t officially thrown his hat into the ring, analysts view the posters as a sign of early mobilization.

With 2027 fast approaching, Kebbi appears headed for a fiercely contested race—one that will test the power of incumbency, the pull of federal connections, and the strength of grassroots support.