As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, political activities across the country are gradually gaining momentum, with parties stepping up preparations following the release of the timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Across states, processes such as membership registration, revalidation, and party congresses are already underway. The ruling All Progressives Congress has completed its congresses in several states, including Jigawa, where new executives emerged largely through consensus at ward, local government, and state levels.
However, despite the peaceful conduct of the exercises, underlying tensions persist within the party in Jigawa. Observers point to a growing rivalry between factions believed to be loyal to Governor Umar Namadi and those aligned with former governor and current Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar.
Speaking at Dutse City Stadium, Governor Namadi urged party members to prioritise unity, fairness, and inclusiveness, stressing that cohesion is key to electoral success.
“We are at a point where unity and justice must guide our actions. Only through fairness can we sustain peace and strengthen the party,” he said, noting that the successful congresses reflected the APC’s internal democracy.
The newly elected state chairman, Ahmed Garba Maikudi, pledged to consolidate party structures and deliver strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next election. He also warned against anti-party activities, vowing to enforce discipline within the ranks.
“We are determined to strengthen the party and ensure overwhelming support for President Tinubu in 2027,” Maikudi said.
Still, analysts believe the real challenge lies ahead. Political watchers say the post-congress atmosphere has exposed cracks within the party, with debates among supporters highlighting the need for reconciliation.
Analyst Ahmed Ilallah Hadejia noted that while Maikudi’s experience in both legislative and executive roles positions him well, his ability to manage internal divisions will be critical.
Key issues facing the new leadership include bridging factional divides, rebuilding trust among long-standing members who feel sidelined, and restoring discipline within party ranks. The growing influence of social media on political discourse has also been identified as both an opportunity and a risk, with unregulated exchanges sometimes deepening divisions.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, the APC’s success in Jigawa may depend largely on how effectively its leadership addresses these internal challenges and maintains unity within its ranks.
