Sokoto 2027: Aliyu, Wamakko, Tambuwal, others shaping governorship race
By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto
SOKOTO: As preparations for the 2027 governorship election begin to gather pace across Nigeria, Sokoto State is shaping up as a key political arena where influence, alliances and ambition are already driving early permutations.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the emerging African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a divided Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are positioning for what is expected to be a closely watched contest in the North-West.
At the centre of the race is incumbent governor Ahmed Aliyu, who is widely expected to seek a second term on the APC platform.
His administration, which came to power after a competitive election, now faces the dual task of consolidating its record while preparing for another electoral test.
Aliyu enters the race with the advantage of incumbency, including control of state structures, access to resources and the backing of political appointees.
He is also expected to benefit from the continued support of his political mentor, former governor and senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, whose grassroots network remains a major asset for the APC.
Analysts say the alliance between the governor and the Wamakko structure could provide a strong mobilisation base across the state.
Despite this, opposition parties are exploring ways to challenge the APC’s dominance ahead of 2027.
The ADC, in particular, has stepped up grassroots mobilisation through membership drives, community engagement and strategic outreach aimed at positioning the party as a credible alternative.
Several prominent figures are reportedly considering 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.
Supporters of these potential aspirants point to insecurity in the North-West as a likely defining campaign issue.
Within the ADC, there is criticism of what is seen as inadequate response to banditry, kidnapping and killings in parts of the region.
The party is also seeking to tap into dissatisfaction with the pace of federal efforts to address security challenges.
ADC strategists are focusing on rural communities, where voting patterns can significantly influence election outcomes.
Meanwhile, the PDP continues to struggle with internal divisions that have weakened its position in Sokoto.
The party remains split into factions at both national and state levels, raising concerns about its ability to present a united front.
One faction aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike recently organised a training exercise in Sokoto ahead of electronic membership registration across the state’s 244 wards.
Another faction, led by Bello Aliyu Goronyo and aligned with former minister Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, is also working to maintain its structure.
The Wike-aligned exercise was monitored by former Commissioner for Water Resources Dahiru Yusuf Yabo, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen grassroots influence.
However, the PDP has yet to produce a clear governorship aspirant capable of unifying the party and rebuilding momentum.
The influence of former governor and ex-Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal also remains a factor, as political actors continue consultations and realignments.
While Tambuwal retains loyal supporters, critics argue that his administration did not deliver enough infrastructure, while others view him as more focused on national politics.
This perception has fuelled debate among voters, with some expressing preference for leaders with stronger grassroots engagement.
As consultations deepen and alliances evolve, the 2027 governorship race in Sokoto is shaping into a contest between incumbency, a growing opposition and a former ruling party seeking to regain relevance.
For now, the APC maintains a strong position, but with opposition activity increasing and public sentiment shifting, the race remains open.
