Kebbi PDP splits over support for gov in 2027
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kebbi State has declared support for the re-election of Governor Nasir Idris of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
- The group, led by former Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Ishaya Bamaiyi, cited Idris's performance and commitment to infrastructure development as reasons for their endorsement.
- The Kebbi State PDP leadership has officially rejected these reports, stating the party remains united and committed to its own candidates.
A significant division has emerged within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kebbi State, Nigeria, as a prominent group of stakeholders has publicly endorsed the re-election of Governor Nasir Idris, who belongs to the opposing All Progressives Congress (APC).
The faction, spearheaded by former Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Ishaya Bamaiyi (retd.), announced their support for Governor Idris at a recent gathering of PDP stakeholders in Birnin Kebbi. Bamaiyi stated that the group's decision was based on their assessment of Idris's performance and his "commitment to infrastructural development across the state." He emphasized that the group would remain within the PDP but argued that political decisions should prioritize the state's best interests, regardless of national party dynamics.
For the 2027 elections, we are now fully committed to the victory of Governor Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu.
Other notable figures present at the gathering included supporters of the PDP's 2015 governorship candidate, Gen Bello Yaki (retd.), and associates of former ministers Kabiru Turaki and Buhari Bala. Bala echoed Bamaiyi's sentiments, citing the governor's "patriotic and selfless leadership" and his focus on infrastructure and the transformation of Birnin Kebbi as key factors influencing their decision.
Governor Idris expressed gratitude for the endorsement, viewing it as a sign of growing support for his administration. However, the Kebbi State PDP leadership has strongly refuted any claims of endorsement. State PDP Chairman Usman Suru issued a statement on Sunday, asserting that the party is "one and united" and remains committed to its platform and candidates. Suru urged party members to disregard the rumors, characterizing them as baseless attempts to cause confusion.
The Kebbi State PDP denies and rejects the rumour that it is supporting the APC and the APC governorship candidate in Kebbi State in the upcoming 2027 election.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.