Subtle political realignments are beginning to take shape in Kebbi State ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition parties exploring strategic alliances to challenge the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Findings indicate that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), both currently dealing with internal challenges, are considering a coalition arrangement as part of efforts to unseat incumbent Governor Nasir Idris in the next electoral cycle.
Political observers describe the proposed alliance as a survival strategy aimed at countering the APC’s entrenched influence across the state. The ADC, which has been active within opposition circles, has recently undergone internal restructuring and leadership adjustments that analysts say have weakened its grassroots mobilisation, making a solo challenge increasingly difficult.
In a statement, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Habibu Abubakar Sambo, criticised the ruling APC, vowing that the ADC would intensify efforts to challenge what it termed governance shortcomings. He assured supporters of renewed mobilisation ahead of the polls.
The evolving opposition dynamics have also been influenced by the rising political profile of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami. Since his exit from the APC, Malami has emerged as a central figure in opposition calculations, with sources suggesting that the PDP is keen to leverage his political structure as part of a broader coalition framework.
Despite internal tensions over leadership and power-sharing arrangements, ADC officials insist that ongoing changes within the party are part of a deliberate effort to strengthen its organisational base at both local government and ward levels.
However, the prospect of a united opposition has been met with skepticism from the APC. Party stakeholders maintain that any proposed alliance lacks the cohesion and grassroots strength required to pose a credible threat.
Reacting to the development, APC supporters dismissed the coalition talks as unrealistic, asserting that the party remains firmly in control due to its extensive grassroots network and governance record under Governor Idris.
Similarly, the governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Radio and Television, Zaidu Bala Kofa Sabuwa, downplayed the chances of Malami in the 2027 race, expressing confidence in the APC’s continued dominance.
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yahaya Sarki, also described the proposed alliance as ineffective, insisting that neither the ADC nor the PDP possesses the structure necessary to compete meaningfully in Kebbi’s political landscape.
While the APC projects confidence, analysts caution that the 2027 governorship race remains fluid. They note that shifting alliances, voter sentiment, and internal party dynamics could significantly influence the outcome.
For the opposition, the coming months are expected to determine whether coalition discussions evolve into a unified political front or remain a tentative strategy in the face of APC’s stronghold.
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