Political tension is mounting in Kebbi State following widespread rumours that Governor Nasiru Idris may be planning to defect from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections. The rumours gained momentum after a viral report listed Idris among five APC governors allegedly considering an alliance with Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, to challenge President Bola Tinubu. The state government’s prolonged silence—over 48 hours after the report surfaced—has only intensified speculation and public anxiety.

Although the APC currently controls the executive arm in Kebbi, the PDP has a solid presence across the state. All three senators representing Kebbi—Adamu Aliero (North), Yahaya Abdullahi (Central), and Garba Musa Maidoki (South)—are PDP members. The enduring influence of former Governor Aliero, who defected to the PDP, has further strengthened the opposition’s grip on the state’s political landscape. Governor Idris’s narrow victory in the 2023 gubernatorial election, where he secured just 52% of the vote against retired General Aminu Bande of the PDP, had already raised concerns about the APC’s weakening dominance.

The uncertainty surrounding Idris’s political future has sparked unrest within the APC. Some members are reportedly exploring opportunities with other political parties, including the Social Democratic Party (SDP), in anticipation of possible shifts. In an attempt to restore calm, Kebbi State APC Chairman Muhammad Zuru issued a warning to party members, urging them to stay loyal and refrain from engaging with "emerging political parties." However, his call for unity has not completely eased fears within the party.

Opinions among party members remain divided. While some insist that the defection rumours are unfounded and typical of pre-election periods, others express growing concern that the governor’s silence could signal an imminent departure. A senior party figure from Birnin Kebbi described the speculations as baseless, asserting that Governor Idris remains committed to the APC. However, a party member from Nassarawa II Ward, where the governor hails from, expressed a more cautious view, stating that the lack of official response from the government is unsettling and could indicate deeper issues.

Longtime political players within the state also acknowledge the growing cracks within the APC. Some argue that if Idris were to leave, many other members would likely follow, citing survival instincts over loyalty. The party’s internal cohesion appears increasingly fragile.

Amid the uncertainty, some APC members have begun discussing future leadership options. Former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami is being seen by some as a potential figure who could restore stability and lead the party into the 2027 elections. Once an APC stronghold, Kebbi now faces a possible major political realignment if the ongoing situation escalates.

Meanwhile, efforts to reach Kabir Sani-Giant, the Special Adviser to Governor Idris on Power and Politics, have been unsuccessful. Sani-Giant recently faced suspension from the APC over an incident involving allegations of bringing a snake into the Government House to intimidate officials—an episode that has added to the atmosphere of political drama in the state.

As political activities intensify ahead of 2027, Kebbi’s unfolding situation is expected to significantly influence the broader dynamics in the North-West geopolitical zone.