By Ibrahim Muhammad
As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the possible defection of People’s Democratic party PDP Gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 general election Mustapha Lamido to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is being viewedɠgɠ as a major boost to the party’s electoral chances in Jigawa State.
The APC, which has recently lost some members in the state, is seeking to rebuild and strengthen its structure. Political observers say Mustapha Lamido’s entry could help close the gap created by those exits and reposition the party ahead of the polls.
During the 2023 governorship election Mustapha Sule Lamido of (PDP): poled 368,726 votes while
Umar Namadi (APC): poled 618,449 vote, winning the election with margin of about 249,700 votes making him the only serious opposition contender in the race.
However is the APC successfully woo Lamido into its fold it will help in deciding the outcome of the 2027 election and will guarantee second chance of Governor Umar Namadi.
A key factor in his importance is his growing popularity, especially among youths. He is widely seen as a modern and accessible politician who connects easily with young voters an increasingly decisive group in elections.
His influence also extends to women, where he enjoys considerable acceptance, giving him a broad and diverse support base.
Beyond his personal appeal, Mustapha Lamido brings with him a strong political structure developed during his time in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Analysts believe that a significant portion of his supporters would follow him into the APC, strengthening the party’s grassroots presence across the state.
His political weight is further amplified by the influence of his father, Sule Lamido, a former governor of Jigawa State and one of the most respected political figures in the region.
Sule Lamido commands deep loyalty across various political blocs, built over decades of active involvement in Nigerian politics.
His popularity and longstanding political network are expected to encourage wider support from established stakeholders.
Finding by our reporter alleged that, agreement has already been concluded only formal declaration remains.
Political observers revealed that,if defected Mr. Lamido may possibly get one ticket out of the two; including ticket for Senator representing Jigawa North Central or a Deputy Governor’s ticket.
The Jigawa North Central being the only senatorial zone won by the People’s Democratic party PDP in the 2023 general election have number of bidders seeking to contest in APC to defeat to serving senator.
However, If the APC offers Mustapha Sule Lamido a deputy governorship or senatorial ticket, it could create internal tension within the party.
Aspirants who have long worked for such positions may feel sidelined and undervalued, especially if his emergence is seen as imposed rather than earned through a fair process. This could lead to resentment, loss of trust, and internal divisions.
Some aggrieved members may respond by withdrawing support while others could go further by defecting to opposition parties or backing alternative candidates, which may split votes and reduce APC’s chances in key elections.
In short, while Lamido’s inclusion could boost APC electorally, mishandling the ambitions of existing members could lead to internal sabotage ahead of 2027.
