The All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to hold a decisive round of governorship primaries today as aspirants across 28 states battle for party tickets ahead of the February 16, 2027 governorship elections.
While many incumbent governors seeking second terms are facing little or no opposition after emerging as consensus candidates, fierce contests are expected in key states including Oyo, Kwara, Nasarawa, Bauchi, Gombe and Rivers.
A total of 101 aspirants are contesting for governorship tickets, with direct primaries scheduled in states where multiple aspirants are in the race. Consensus candidates will be affirmed at ward levels in line with the party’s guidelines.
Fubara Withdraws from Rivers Race
In Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara officially withdrew from the APC governorship primary on the eve of the exercise, reshaping the political landscape in the state.
Fubara said his decision was driven by the need to preserve peace, unity and stability in Rivers State. In a personally signed statement, the governor disclosed that the move followed extensive consultations with political allies, friends and family members.
According to him, stepping down was a sacrifice made in the larger interest of the state and the party.
His withdrawal leaves the contest largely in the hands of aspirants aligned with former Rivers governor and Rainbow Coalition leader, Nyesom Wike.
Other notable withdrawals in Rivers include Tonye Cole and Dr. George-Kelly Alabo. George-Kelly said he stepped down to promote party unity and strategic cooperation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The remaining frontline contenders in the state are House of Representatives member Kingsley Chinda and Dr. Dakorimama Alabo George.
Major Contests in Oyo and Kwara
In Oyo State, 11 aspirants are contesting for the APC ticket, although political observers believe the race will mainly be between Senator Sharafadeen Alli and former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu.
Kwara State recorded the highest number of aspirants, with 16 politicians initially declaring interest. However, former Minister of National Planning, Professor Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, has withdrawn from the race.
Businessman and philanthropist Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki is widely believed to enjoy the backing of Governor AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq, who recently secured a senatorial ticket.
Consensus Candidates Emerge in Some States
In Borno State, Mustapha Gubio emerged as the consensus candidate after receiving unanimous endorsement from party stakeholders.
Similarly, Bashir Mallam Wali was adopted as the consensus candidate in Yobe State.
In Lagos, the contest narrowed to Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat and Laraen Jim-Kamal following the withdrawal of Samuel Ajose.
Tough Battles Expected in Nasarawa, Bauchi and Adamawa
Nasarawa State is witnessing an intense political showdown between former Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Adamu Abubakar and Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada.
While former Governor Tanko Al-Makura is backing Adamu, Governor Abdullahi Sule has openly endorsed Wadada, setting the stage for a fierce contest.
In Bauchi State, eight aspirants are vying for the APC ticket, including Senator Shehu Buba Umar and former minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar.
Adamawa also has a crowded field with 10 aspirants seeking to succeed Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
Governors Running Unopposed
At least 13 governors are expected to emerge unchallenged after securing endorsements from their respective state chapters.
Among them are Governors Umo Eno, Bassey Otu, Sheriff Oborevwori, Francis Nwifuru, Peter Mbah, Uba Sani, Abba Kabir Yusuf and Dauda Lawal.
The APC leadership has assured members of a transparent and credible process aimed at preventing post-primary disputes and strengthening party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.