With the nullification of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable, which critics argued was designed to compress the electoral process and restrict the democratic space, Niger State’s political landscape may be heading for significant realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
The autocratic and high-handed approach allegedly adopted by the APC leadership in Niger State has now been challenged, creating fresh opportunities for political negotiations, defections, and strategic alliances.
This development, particularly in Niger South, could complicate Governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s bid for a second term, undermine efforts to impose preferred candidates, and potentially open the door for a different political party to gain control of the state.
Anyone who has closely followed the backlash and growing discontent over the conduct of the APC primaries would understand the potential impact of any political realignment in the state.
Rabiu Muhammad, an architect by profession who purchased a nomination form but was screened out at the eleventh hour on what many considered frivolous grounds, has since resigned from the party. Several of his supporters have reportedly followed suit.
Similarly, Muhammad Nami, the international tax expert, was also edged out of the contest. I have consistently maintained that Nami’s political profile is more suited to a governorship race than a Senate bid. Should he secure the ticket of another party under the new political opportunities created by the court judgment, his entry into the race could send shockwaves across the state.
Ndarani, a lawyer with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), also commands a substantial following. Any decision by him to leave the APC could trigger a significant movement of supporters.
In Niger East, Bwari, popularly known as BBB, is unlikely to defect. However, any indication that he is dissatisfied with the APC could inflict considerable political damage on the party. BBB was reportedly disqualified at the eleventh hour over allegations that certain documents were not properly dated. Many observers considered the reason questionable, particularly given his legal background.
Nmaa Ahmed, who contested for the House of Representatives ticket in the Federal Capital constituency, was also perceived by his supporters as having been unfairly denied victory through a process they described as opaque and flawed. The announced results reportedly omitted figures from two wards. Although Ahmed does not currently appear inclined to leave the APC, political calculations can change rapidly.
Similarly, the Chanchaga State Assembly ticket was reportedly allocated through a consensus arrangement without any form of balloting, despite the presence of more than four aspirants.
Complaints have also emerged from other parts of the state. One aspirant reportedly claimed that party leaders issued what he described as a “marching order” directing him to step down.
In Niger North, political tensions remain evident. The younger brother of former Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu (Lolo) has already left the APC and is reportedly contesting for a House of Representatives seat on the platform of the ADC. Sources within the party suggest that the former governor himself was persuaded to remain in the APC through assurances of a Senate return ticket, although many of his loyalists are said to be politically disengaged from the party.
In Kontagora, Mashegu, Wushishi and Mariga, concerns persist over continued support for a candidate who has occupied elective office for nearly two decades, with critics arguing that his legislative record and constituency projects do not justify another term.
The court judgment has effectively opened a new political contest in Niger State, one that could reshape the fortunes of key political actors, including Governor Bago.
Whether these grievances translate into a major political realignment or remain internal party disputes will become clearer in the coming months.
For now, the battle for Niger 2027 has entered a new and potentially decisive phase.
To be continued…
