The opposition parties in Jigawa State, particularly the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), are experiencing internal conflicts over candidate replacements, which could threaten their chances of winning the 2027 general elections. The replacements took place three weeks after the submission of candidates' lists to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Analysts believe that if these parties fail to resolve their internal issues, they may struggle to wrestle power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The PDP, in particular, is facing significant challenges in managing its internal dynamics. As a former ruling party in the state, it has lost a substantial part of its support base due to defections and internal rebellion. Despite being out of power for over a decade, the party still maintains a presence in the state, largely due to the efforts of Dr. Sule Lamido's political family. However, critics accuse Lamido of holding the party to serve his family's political interests and negotiate for personal relevance.
The PDP recently replaced Hon. Dahiru Madaki, its candidate for the Dutse/Kiyawa Federal Constituency, with Hon. Aminu Wada Abubakar. Madaki had initially won the party's primaries and had his particulars uploaded to INEC. However, the party leadership decided to offer Abubakar the ticket after Suleiman Abba, a former Inspector-General of Police, joined the party in July and was offered an automatic senatorial ticket. This decision has sparked controversy, with Madaki's supporters feeling that he was unfairly treated.
The replacement of Madaki with Abubakar has created tension within the party. Madaki's media aide, Ismail Muhammad, insists that Madaki remains the authentic candidate, as his name has not been changed on the INEC portal. However, the party's Publicity Secretary, Mr. Umar Kyari, claims that the issue has been resolved, and Madaki has even congratulated Abubakar. The conflicting statements suggest that the party still has unresolved issues.
The Dutse/Kiyawa Federal Constituency seat is one of the most fiercely contested in the state, with several prominent politicians vying for the position. The APC's Hon. Is'haq Tasi'u Soja, currently representing Dutse State Constituency, is also contesting the seat. Other notable contestants include Bala Usman Chamo of the ADC and Amb. Inuwa Dutse of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Analysts believe that the internal conflicts within the opposition parties could have significant consequences for their chances in the 2027 general elections. With about four months to the elections, it is essential for these parties to resolve their internal issues and present a united front against the ruling APC. The NDC, which has so far conducted its affairs without rancor, may have an advantage in this regard.
The situation in Jigawa State highlights the challenges faced by opposition parties in Nigeria. The ability of the PDP and ADC to resolve their internal conflicts and present a strong challenge to the APC will depend on their leadership and ability to manage their internal dynamics. The coming months will be crucial in determining the outcome of the 2027 general elections in the state.
Key points
- The opposition parties in Jigawa State, particularly the PDP and ADC, face internal conflicts over candidate replacements.
- The replacements took place three weeks after the submission of candidates' lists to INEC, potentially jeopardizing the parties' chances in the 2027 general elections.
- Analysts believe that if the opposition parties fail to resolve their internal issues, they may struggle to wrestle power from the ruling APC.
