Speculation over early political positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections intensified on Monday following claims that several senators may receive automatic return tickets under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development, which has not been officially confirmed by the Presidency or the party, was hinted at by Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, during an engagement with political stakeholders in the state.
According to the governor, the lawmakers under consideration are being recognised for what he described as their role in “stabilising” the National Assembly since 2023 through consistent cooperation with the executive arm and facilitation of key legislative processes.
Among those reportedly penciled down is the Senate Majority Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, alongside Adamu Aliero, Abdulaziz Yari, Orji Uzor Kalu, Yahaya Abdullahi, Idiat Oluranti Adebule, Danjuma Goje, and Adetokunbo Abiru, among others.
Governor Idris reportedly stated that the senators’ contributions had “significantly helped in stabilising the Senate and strengthening governance under the current administration.”
Despite the weight of the claims, attempts to obtain confirmation from the Senate leadership proved unsuccessful. Neither the office of Senator Bamidele nor that of Senate spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, issued any official response as of Monday night.
The Presidency and the APC also remained silent on the matter, leaving the reports unverified and open to interpretation within political circles.
Meanwhile, a separate political development unfolded in Abia State, where a leadership tussle within the APC has begun to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Both Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, publicly claimed to have received President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement to coordinate party activities in the state.
In a statement shared via social media, Orji Uzor Kalu expressed appreciation to the President for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to work with stakeholders to strengthen the party’s chances in future elections.
On his part, the Deputy Speaker stated that the President had directed that in states without APC governors, the highest-ranking political office holder should assume leadership of party affairs—a directive he says positions him for the role in Abia.
The overlapping claims have added a layer of uncertainty to the party’s internal structure in the state, with observers noting that how the situation is resolved may shape the APC’s strategy and cohesion ahead of the 2027 polls.
As political maneuvering gradually intensifies, the absence of official clarification from key authorities continues to fuel speculation about the ruling party’s internal arrangements and electoral plans.
Comments