As the 2027 general elections approach, political developments in Kebbi State suggest a shift in alignments, with former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), being urged to run for governor.
According to a report by Daily Post, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) is actively encouraging Malami to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) and take up its ticket for the upcoming governorship race. Behind this push is former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, who is reportedly working to build a new political bloc across northern Nigeria.
Sources close to Malami reveal he had planned to defect in April alongside former Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi but delayed the move. He’s believed to be waiting for signs from Governor Nasir Idris and the APC’s direction in Kebbi.
“If Governor Idris defects from the APC, Malami might stay behind and secure the ticket. But if the governor stays put, he may jump ship to the SDP,” one insider noted.
There have been reports suggesting Governor Idris may consider joining an opposition coalition linked to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. While the governor has denied these claims, the speculation has stirred internal tensions within the APC.
A cabinet member close to the governor insisted that, “He maintains a good relationship with the federal government. PDP and SDP are no threat in Kebbi.”
El-Rufai is said to have met recently with Malami and other northern political figures in Katsina, where discussions about forming a new coalition reportedly took place. A source familiar with those meetings said:
“This isn’t just about Kebbi—it’s about reshaping northern political power. He’s drawing links across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, and Gombe.”
Malami’s rumored ambition may receive a boost from concerns over governance in the state. Local criticisms aimed at Governor Idris include rising insecurity in rural areas and unmet infrastructure promises. Some in the SDP believe these issues could offer an opening for Malami if he chooses to run.
Still, not everyone is convinced Malami is the answer. Kabir Mustapha, a former secretary of the defunct ANPP and APC chieftain in Bagudo West, dismissed the speculation: “You don’t substitute your best player mid-game. Governor Idris remains the best we have. Talk of defection is mere beer parlour gossip.”
Malami is said to have strong backing in areas such as Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, and Gwandu, thanks in part to youth engagement and philanthropic efforts. However, opinions on his broader appeal remain divided, particularly due to past controversies during his tenure as Attorney General.
Whether Malami will make his move remains to be seen, but the situation in Kebbi suggests the next election cycle could be far from predictable.
Article updated 5 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
