As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, a growing number of federal lawmakers are shifting focus from legislative duties to gubernatorial ambitions across their respective states.
Both the Senate and the House of Representatives are witnessing increased political activity, as members begin consultations, build alliances, and position themselves ahead of party primaries. This trend highlights the continued appeal of executive power, with governorship roles offering more direct control over policies and state resources.
In the Senate, several high-profile figures are already in the race or making strategic moves. In Kwara State, three senators are positioning themselves for the top seat. Lola Ashiru is presenting himself as a technocrat with experience, while Saliu Mustapha is focusing on grassroots engagement, especially among young people. Sadiq Sulaiman Umar is leveraging regional support from Kwara North.
In Nasarawa, Aliyu Wadada and Mohammed Ogoshi Onawo are also preparing for the race, each relying on different political strategies and alliances.
Bauchi State presents a mix of experience and emerging leadership, with Abdul Ahmed Ningi and Shehu Buba Umar seen as key contenders.
In Yobe, all three senators are reportedly eyeing the governorship, including former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, alongside Ibrahim Mohammed Bomai and Musa Mustapha.
In Kano, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin is considered a strong contender, although political dynamics may shift following developments involving Abba Yusuf.
In the South-West, Ogun State has seen a major development, with Solomon Adeola emerging as a consensus candidate, while in Oyo State, Sharafadeen Alli and Abdulfatai Buhari are pursuing the ticket through different approaches.
The House of Representatives is also witnessing rising ambitions. In Abia, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu is making strategic moves, although he has not officially declared his intention.
In Oyo, Stanley Olajide and Aderemi Oseni are positioning themselves with different campaign styles, while in Ogun, Gboyega Nasir Isiaka and Abiodun Akinlade have been key figures in the race.
Other states, including Nasarawa, Gombe, and Kwara, are also seeing increased interest from lawmakers such as Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi, Abubakar Hassan Nalaraba, Usman Bello Kumo, Ali Isa JC, and Mohammed Omar Bio.
Analysts note that while legislative positions offer influence, governorship roles remain the ultimate political goal due to their control over state-level decision-making and resources.
However, the path to securing party tickets remains uncertain. Factors such as zoning arrangements, internal party negotiations, and elite agreements are expected to play decisive roles, often outweighing popularity or performance.
With party primaries approaching, the coming months are likely to be marked by intense negotiations, shifting alliances, and possible withdrawals, as only a few candidates will eventually secure tickets.
