Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has chosen former Commissioner for Finance, Ibrahim Augie, as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election, replacing the incumbent Deputy Governor, Umar Tafida, following concerns over Tafida’s eligibility.
The decision was announced on Sunday in Birnin Kebbi by the All Progressives Congress National Organising Secretary, Suleiman Argungu, during a meeting with party stakeholders.
According to the party, the change followed legal advice on the eligibility of the current deputy governor to continue as Idris’ running mate in the next governorship election.
The development does not appear to be linked to any disagreement between Governor Idris and Tafida. The party said Tafida accepted the decision, while the governor also dismissed suggestions that there was a dispute between the two political leaders.
With the change, Augie will now contest alongside Idris as the APC ticket for the 2027 Kebbi governorship election takes shape.
Party leaders and supporters in the state were urged to accept the decision and remain united ahead of the election. The APC also called for cooperation among its members to ensure the party maintains its political strength in Kebbi.
Governor Idris similarly appealed for unity and continued support for his administration as it carries on with its development plans across the state.
Augie previously served as Kebbi State Commissioner for Finance during the administration of former Governor Atiku Bagudu. He is from Augie Local Government Area of the state.
The choice of a new running mate comes as political parties across the country continue to reorganise their structures and prepare for the 2027 general elections. In Kebbi, the APC is expected to build on the current administration’s structure as it begins preparations for the next governorship contest.