Kebbi Governor replaces Deputy with former Commissioner as 2027 running mate

Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has replaced his deputy, Umar Abubakar Tafida, as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.

The governor has instead selected Ibrahim Augie, a former Commissioner for Finance in the state, to contest alongside him.

The development was announced on Sunday by Suleiman Argungu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Organising Secretary in Kebbi, in a statement shared on X.

Argungu made the announcement at the Presidential Lodge in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, attributing the change to professional legal advice concerning the eligibility of the incumbent deputy governor.

According to Argungu, Tafida accepted the decision, stressing that it was reached with his understanding and consent.

He also dismissed speculation of a rift between the governor and his deputy, saying there was no disagreement between the two.

Augie, who previously served as Kebbi’s Commissioner for Finance from 2015 to 2023, will now join Idris on the APC ticket ahead of the 2027 election.

Speaking after the announcement, Governor Idris appealed to residents and supporters to maintain unity and continue supporting his administration.

He reiterated that his decision to replace Tafida was based solely on legal considerations and not any misunderstanding between them.

The governor also called for continued cooperation and prayers as his administration works to advance development across Kebbi State.

Among the prominent figures present at the announcement were Ibrahim Hassan Kundudan, representing the Emir of Argungu, and Bashir Isah Mera, the APC chairman in Augie Local Government Area.