By Aliyu Usman, Birnin Kebbi | Nigeria News Today | The Bureau News
With Nigeria’s 2027 general elections on the horizon, political tension is steadily building in Kebbi State. But while various contenders gear up for the race, it is Governor Nasir Idris’ calm, focused leadership that’s turning heads and unsettling the opposition.
This view was expressed by Abdullahi Idris Zuru, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, who spoke to The Bureau News about the evolving political dynamics in Kebbi.
Rising Political Desperation Amid Governor’s Growing Popularity
Zuru said many aspirants are already expressing desperation as they scramble for relevance in an uncertain political climate. According to him, this early jostling is a result of fear—fear of not securing their party’s ticket due to poor public perception, weak track records, or questionable pasts.
To bypass these hurdles, some have aligned under the Advance Democratic Congress (ADC) to pursue their ambitions. Among them is former Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, who recently resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and expressed interest in contesting the 2027 governorship race.
“Many wonder why Malami, who served under President Muhammadu Buhari for eight years, would exit APC, a party he benefitted from. It likely reflects public skepticism toward his contributions to the state’s development,” Zuru stated.
Malami’s Political Calculations and Public Reaction
While some defend Malami’s right to pursue political ambition using his resources, others believe he’s embarked on a misguided venture. They point out that Governor Nasir Idris, popularly known as Kauran Gwandu, enjoys unwavering support from APC stakeholders and a majority of Kebbi residents, who consistently pass votes of confidence in his administration.
Zuru argued that the former minister’s political strategy appears to be rooted in undermining the achievements of the current administration rather than presenting a viable alternative.
Allegations of Smear Campaigns and Media Manipulation
According to Zuru, Malami has allegedly engaged consultants from Kano and Abuja known for crafting political propaganda. These operatives have reportedly packaged fabricated narratives and unfounded allegations, which are circulated across radio, social media platforms, and some NGOs to tarnish the Governor’s image.
“Some reports even go as far as lifting negative stories on healthcare and education from other countries and falsely attributing them to Kebbi,” he alleged.
Zuru believes the goal is clear: to provoke, distract, and derail the Governor’s ongoing efforts in infrastructure and public service delivery.
A Governor Unmoved by Political Gimmicks
Despite these tactics, Governor Nasir Idris remains undeterred. Zuru emphasized that the Governor continues to focus on development projects and people-centered policies, which have won him widespread admiration across political and ethnic lines.
Just last week, the administration:
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Distributed over 2 million textbooks, vehicles, and motorcycles valued at ₦3 billion to support basic education
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Reaffirmed commitment to free education and agriculture, by offering free fertiliser and farming tools to local farmers
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Appointed distribution committees in all 21 LGAs for fair access to agricultural inputs
“The Governor’s calmness and focus under pressure have left the opposition confused and increasingly desperate,” Zuru added.
