As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the political landscape in Kebbi State is rapidly shifting, with former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami (SAN), at the center of escalating political maneuvering.
DAILY POST has gathered that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) is aggressively lobbying Malami to leave the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and contest the 2027 governorship election under its platform. Inside sources confirm that Malami has been offered the SDP ticket with strategic backing allegedly orchestrated by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
El-Rufai is said to be spearheading efforts to build a formidable northern opposition bloc, holding private consultations in Katsina with top political figures including Malami. One insider claimed, “El-Rufai promised Malami a free ticket and full support. He's connecting dots across Kaduna, Kebbi, Katsina, and Gombe to challenge Tinubu’s APC in 2027.”
However, Malami is reportedly taking a cautious approach, closely observing the movements of Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris. Sources say Malami initially planned to defect in April alongside former Ekiti Governor, Kayode Fayemi, but held back to monitor internal dynamics within the APC.
“He’s watching the governor closely, especially with whispers that Idris may defect. If Idris leaves, Malami might stay in APC to capture the ticket easily. If the governor stays, Malami could jump ship to SDP,” a source familiar with the situation told DAILY POST.
The suspense has deepened following unconfirmed reports that Governor Idris may be entertaining offers from an Atiku-led opposition alliance. Although Idris has firmly denied the claims, saying “I’ll be the last man standing” in the APC, the rumors have sparked tension within the party’s state chapter.
A cabinet member in the Idris administration admitted that pressures exist but dismissed the likelihood of defection. “Yes, they’re reaching out, but our governor is not going anywhere. He enjoys a good rapport with the federal government and knows what’s at stake.”
Yet, El-Rufai’s recent SDP defection is being interpreted in two ways: as either a serious opposition move or a clever smokescreen to neutralize PDP’s potential coalition threats. Some believe Malami is stalling due to the unclear national direction of the SDP and the risks of aligning too early.
“Malami is playing the long game. He knows Tinubu is a strategist and won’t make rash moves,” another political insider said. “The question now is—can he truly defeat Idris if it comes to that?”
Governor Idris, once hailed for his populist style, is facing mounting criticism over insecurity in Danko-Wasagu and Zuru areas, where banditry has displaced farmers and strained local resources. Critics also fault his administration’s slow pace in delivering infrastructure and connecting with grassroots communities.
“People are tired of excuses. Malami could leverage this growing discontent if he times his entry well,” an SDP source suggested.
Still, others believe Malami lacks the wide appeal to unseat Idris, whose political base remains solid. Kabir Mustapha, a veteran APC chieftain, dismissed Malami’s chances entirely. “You don’t substitute your best player mid-match. Idris is the best. A hundred Malamis can’t match him.”
Despite this, Malami remains a polarizing figure. While his past tenure as AGF was mired in controversy—particularly regarding high-profile corruption cases—he retains significant influence in Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, and Gwandu, with loyal grassroots structures and silent philanthropy.
Recently, a new layer of tension emerged following the arrest of Malami supporter, Mukhtar Dan Baturiya, who reportedly made a Facebook post speculating about Idris’ possible defection. The incident is being interpreted as a signal that the Malami-Idris rivalry is evolving into open confrontation.
With two years to go before the polls, the political chessboard in Kebbi State is heating up. Should Malami formally defect to the SDP and receive full backing from El-Rufai, the 2027 governorship race in Kebbi could become one of the most fiercely contested in Nigeria’s North-West region.
[daily post]