As the 2027 general elections draw closer, political realignments are intensifying in Kebbi State, with former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), emerging at the center of unfolding intrigues.
InfoStride News gathered that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) is mounting serious pressure on Malami to dump the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and contest for governor on its platform.
Sources within political circles in Kebbi and Abuja revealed that the SDP governorship ticket has already been offered to Malami, allegedly with the support of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
Malami, however, is reportedly treading cautiously, awaiting Governor Nasir Idris’ next political move before making a final decision.
“He was meant to declare for SDP in mid-April alongside Kayode Fayemi but delayed,” a source close to the former AGF disclosed. “He’s closely watching the governor, especially with rumours that he may exit the APC.”
Although Governor Idris has publicly dismissed defection rumours—stating, “I’ll be the last man standing”—insiders suggest the Atiku Abubakar-led opposition coalition has been courting him.
Amid these speculations, sources confirmed El-Rufai recently met with Malami and other northern stakeholders in Katsina to build a regional political bloc ahead of 2027, with Malami slated to lead the charge in Kebbi.
“El-Rufai promised him the ticket and full support,” a source said, though doubts remain about El-Rufai’s national acceptability following his recent switch to the SDP.
Meanwhile, Governor Idris faces mounting criticism over rural insecurity, especially in Danko-Wasagu and Zuru, and perceived disconnect from grassroots concerns—conditions analysts say Malami could exploit.
Yet, not everyone is convinced of Malami’s chances. APC chieftain Kabir Mustapha stated, “A hundred Malamis can’t match Kauran Gwandu. He’s our best.”
With political tensions rising and the alleged arrest of Malami loyalist Mukhtar Dan Baturiya over a Facebook post stoking further division, Kebbi’s political chessboard is poised for a fierce contest.
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