The 2027 governorship election in Adamawa State is shaping up to be a competitive contest following Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the growing political influence of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
Fintiri, whose second term is due to end in May 2027, left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC in February, reshaping the political landscape in the state. His move has strengthened the ruling party’s local structure, while Atiku continues to command considerable support in his home state.
The contest features candidates from several parties, with disputes over nominations and internal divisions adding uncertainty to the race. Although the APC has the advantage of controlling the state government, political observers note that the influence of prominent political figures does not automatically translate into electoral victory in Adamawa.
The APC candidate, Tijjani Galadima, is campaigning on an agenda focused on infrastructure, agricultural development, transparency, healthcare, education and improved access to electricity. His candidacy benefits from Fintiri’s political network and the support of the federal ruling party.
However, Abdulrahman Haske, who defected from the APC after disputing its primary election outcome, is contesting under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM). A businessman with interests in agriculture, oil and gas, information technology and logistics, Haske is presenting himself as an alternative to the established political structure.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is also facing internal disagreements over its governorship ticket. Hamman Modibbo has received backing from the party’s national leadership and Atiku, while Umar Suleiman is challenging his replacement through the courts. A separate faction associated with Nafiu Bala has also produced Muhammad Shuwa as its candidate.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Aishatu Ahmed, popularly known as Binani, is another significant contender. A former senator and 2023 APC governorship candidate, she is known for her grassroots political network and empowerment initiatives, particularly among women and small-scale entrepreneurs.
Former senator Ishaku Abbo is contesting under the Labour Party, drawing on his support among younger voters, particularly in northern Adamawa. Meanwhile, the PDP candidate, Maurice Vunobolki, faces a competing claim from Caleb Myebangara amid the party’s continuing internal crisis.
Political analyst Mahdi Abba of Modibbo Adama University said the major parties have different strengths that could shape the election. He noted that the APC candidate benefits from incumbency and an established political structure, while the ADC could draw support from Atiku’s influence.
Abba also highlighted Binani’s grassroots appeal and Abbo’s regional following as factors that could influence voting patterns. He added that divisions among candidates sharing similar voter bases could create opportunities for other parties.
Adamawa has a history of unpredictable election outcomes, including instances where voters supported candidates from different parties in presidential and governorship elections. This history suggests that political endorsements alone may not determine the result.
With competing interests, factional disputes and several prominent candidates in the race, the 2027 Adamawa governorship election is expected to be shaped by party organisation, local alliances, candidate appeal and voters’ decisions.
