The Political Landscape in Nigeria: A Glimpse into the 2027 Governorship Race
By the year 2027, a total of 11 governors will be stepping down from their positions. These individuals are currently serving their second terms and are constrained by constitutional provisions that limit individuals to no more than two four-year terms. Among them are governors such as Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, AbdulRahman Abdulrazak of Kwara, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, and Hope Uzodinma of Imo.
The distribution of these governors across different regions shows a diverse political landscape. Five of them are from the North-east, two from the South-west, one from the South-east, one from the South-south, and two from the North-central. This geographical spread highlights the varied dynamics influencing the upcoming governorship elections.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the race for governorship seats is intensifying. Outgoing governors are actively involved in selecting potential successors, which has led to increased political activities. Contestants are striving to gain the support of these governors and take advantage of favorable situations to position themselves ahead of time.
In states where the governors are in their first terms and expected to re-contest, the tempo of political activities is relatively lower. However, there are still indications of interest from various figures who may contest for the governorship seats.
Key States and Their Contenders
Bauchi State
Governor Bala Mohammed's successor remains uncertain, but several names have emerged as potential candidates. These include Dr. Ali Pate, a minister of health; Senator Abdul Ahmad Ningi; and Alhaji Yakubu Adamu, the state commissioner of finance. While Dr. Pate appears to have the support of the governor and the presidency, internal crises within the PDP could affect Senator Ningi's candidature. Other contenders include Alhaji Bala Maijama'a Wunti, a former senior official at the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and others who have been active in local campaigns.
Nasarawa State
The political atmosphere in Nasarawa is charged with activity as major contenders in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) intensify consultations. Potential candidates include Mohammed Abubakar Adamu, a former Inspector General of Police (IGP); David Emmanuel Ombugadu, a former member of the House of Representatives; and Dr. Faisal Shuaib, the immediate past Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). Other likely contenders include Professor Mohammed Haruna and Senator Aliyu Wadada.
Adamawa State
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri's term ends in 2027, prompting intense jostling for his successor. Potential candidates include Adamu Atiku, son of the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Ibrahim Yayaji Mijinyawa, a grassroots politician. The Gangola People's Forum (GPF) is also expected to play a significant role in the succession plan.
Gombe State
Governor Inuwa Yahaya has kept his plans for a successor private, making it difficult to ascertain who will be his candidate for the 2027 elections. Potential contenders from the APC include Senator Sa'idu Ahmed Alkali, Dr Isa Ali Pantami, and Yunusa Yakubu, while the PDP has Muhammad Jibril Barde as a persistent contender.
Borno State
The battle for the number one seat in Borno State has already commenced. Aspirants eyeing the seat include Ali Bukar Dalori, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, and Sen Kaka Shehu Lawan. The APC has several prominent figures, including APC Acting National Chairman Ali Bukar Dalori, who enjoys the support of Governor Babagana Zulum and the Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Bayelsa State
Politicians in Bayelsa State are strategizing for the control of structures and who to push forward to succeed incumbent Governor Douye Diri. Potential candidates include Mitema Obordor, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, and Senator Benson Agadaga.
Kwara State
The political landscape in Kwara State is gradually gaining momentum as key figures across party lines begin to position themselves as potential successors to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. Potential contenders include Senator Saliu Mustapha, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, and Yakubu Danladi.
Lagos State
The question of who succeeds Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2027 is now on the lips of many observers. Potential candidates include Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, and Seyi Tinubu, son of the president.
Analysts' Perspectives
Political analysts emphasize the importance of long-term planning and strategic engagements in the political arena. Associate Professor of Political Science at Al-Hikmah University, Sikiru Lanre Nurudeen, notes that the current activities should not be mistaken for campaigns but rather early-stage political consultations. He highlights the need for strategic engagements with various stakeholders, including financiers, traditional rulers, political actors, and interest groups.
As the 2027 governorship race unfolds, the political landscape in Nigeria is set to witness intense competition and strategic maneuvering among various contenders. The outcome of these elections will shape the future governance of the respective states and reflect the evolving political dynamics across the country.
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