2027: Sokoto Becomes Major Battleground For Governorship Contest

As early preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 governorship elections gain momentum, Sokoto State is emerging as a significant battleground where political influence, alliances, and ambitions are already taking centre stage.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a rising African Democratic Congress (ADC), and a divided Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are all positioning themselves for what is expected to be a highly competitive contest in the North-West.

At the heart of the race is incumbent Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who is widely anticipated to seek re-election on the APC platform. Having assumed office after a keenly contested election, Aliyu now faces the challenge of consolidating his administration’s achievements while preparing for another electoral test.

He enters the race with the advantages of incumbency, including control of state structures, access to government resources, and the support of political appointees. His position is further strengthened by the backing of his political mentor, former governor and senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, whose established grassroots network continues to serve as a critical asset for the APC. Observers believe this alliance could play a decisive role in mobilising voters across the state.

Despite the APC’s strong footing, opposition parties are intensifying efforts to challenge its dominance. The ADC, in particular, has ramped up grassroots mobilisation through membership drives, community engagement, and strategic outreach aimed at presenting itself as a viable alternative.

Several prominent figures are reportedly eyeing the ADC platform, including former Minister of Transport Yusuf Suleiman, former Deputy Governor Manir Muhammad Dan Iya, former Commissioner and diplomat Faruku Malami Yabo, and Islamic scholar Sheikh Bashir Dan Fili.

Security concerns in the North-West are expected to feature prominently in the campaign. Within the ADC, there is growing criticism of what members describe as inadequate responses to banditry, kidnapping, and killings in parts of the region. The party is also seeking to capitalise on public dissatisfaction with federal efforts to address these challenges, particularly in rural communities where voting patterns can be decisive.

Meanwhile, the PDP continues to grapple with internal divisions that have weakened its influence in Sokoto. The party remains fragmented into factions at both the national and state levels, raising doubts about its ability to present a united front ahead of the election.

One faction aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike recently conducted a training exercise in Sokoto in preparation for electronic membership registration across the state’s 244 wards. The exercise, monitored by former Commissioner for Water Resources Dahiru Yusuf Yabo, underscores ongoing attempts to rebuild grassroots structures.

At the same time, another faction led by Bello Aliyu Goronyo and aligned with former minister Kabiru Tanimu Turaki is working to sustain its own political base.

However, the PDP has yet to produce a consensus governorship aspirant capable of unifying the party and restoring its competitive edge. The influence of former governor and ex-Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal also remains significant, as consultations and political realignments continue. While Tambuwal retains a loyal following, critics argue that his administration fell short on infrastructure development, while others believe his focus was largely on national politics.

This mixed perception has sparked debate among voters, with many expressing a preference for leaders with stronger grassroots engagement.

As political consultations deepen and alliances continue to evolve, Sokoto’s 2027 governorship race is shaping up to be a contest defined by incumbency strength, a growing opposition force, and a former ruling party striving to regain relevance.

For now, the APC appears firmly in control, but with increasing opposition activity and shifting public sentiment, the race remains wide open.