Nineteen candidates set for fierce Sokoto governorship battle
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that 19 candidates will contest the Sokoto State governorship election in 2027, signalling one of the most crowded fields in the state’s political history.
The list, displayed at INEC’s state office, features contenders from across Nigeria’s political spectrum, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and several smaller parties.
Abimbola Joseph
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that 19 candidates will contest the Sokoto State governorship election in 2027, signalling one of the most crowded fields in the state’s political history.
The list, displayed at INEC’s state office, features contenders from across Nigeria’s political spectrum, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and several smaller parties.
Among the notable names are incumbent governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto of the APC, Abdullah Sokoto Abubakar of the PDP, and Manir Muhammad Dan’Iya of the Action Democratic Party.
The PDP’s participation, however, remains overshadowed by internal divisions. Abubakar’s candidacy is linked to the faction loyal to the Wike/Bature camp, while another faction has yet to declare its position. Party officials have urged supporters to remain calm as they deliberate on the way forward.
Observers note that the crowded race could intensify political manoeuvring in Sokoto, with candidates expected to ramp up consultations and mobilisation ahead of the polls.
The APC will seek to consolidate its hold on power, while the PDP faces the dual challenge of resolving its internal crisis and mounting a credible campaign.
With 19 contenders, the Sokoto governorship election promises a competitive and unpredictable contest, setting the stage for months of political drama as parties battle for voter confidence.
