With the 2027 general elections approaching, political unrest is shaking Kebbi State, as former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), emerges as a potential gubernatorial candidate, possibly running under a new party banner.

Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, is reportedly leading the initiative to create a northern political coalition aimed at challenging the APC’s dominance.

According to sources close to Malami, he is facing considerable pressure to depart from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and accept the governorship ticket from the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

A confidant of the former AGF said, “Malami is watching closely. If Governor Idris defects from the APC, Malami might stay and fight from within. But if the governor remains, he may jump ship to the SDP."

Also, there are speculations that Gov Idris is dumping APC. Despite Governor Nasir Idris' public denial, speculation about his possible defection to an opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has only intensified the political uncertainty.

“This isn’t just about Kebbi. It’s about reshaping northern political power,” a source revealed.

One senior SDP official believes Malami could capitalise on Idris’ declining popularity.

“The governor is under fire for rising insecurity and poor infrastructure. Malami, if strategic, can exploit this,” he said.

Though Malami has strong followings in areas like Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, and Gwandu, his broader appeal across Kebbi State is still in question.

Many voters continue to recall the controversies surrounding his time as Attorney General of the Federation.

Kabir Mustapha, a former ANPP secretary and current APC chieftain, rejected the idea outright: 

“You don’t substitute your best player mid-game. Talk of defection is beer parlour gossip. Malami cannot match the governor’s political capital.”