Tambuwal Steps Down, Endorses Yabo as Ex-Deputy Gov Emerges ADC Governorship Candidate
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives and incumbent Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has withdrawn from the 2027 race for the Sokoto South Senatorial District, stepping aside from his bid for a second term in the Senate to allow other aspirants within his political camp to contest the seat. Sources close to the former governor said the decision was part of a broader political arrangement aimed at creating opportunities for younger politicians and strengthening unity within the African Democratic Congress, the platform he joined in March 2026 after resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party.
The former governor, who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015, governor of Sokoto State from 2015 to 2023, and has represented Sokoto South in the Senate since June 2023, has thrown his weight behind Ambassador Faruku Malami Yabo, MFR, to replace him on the senatorial ticket. Tambuwal’s withdrawal from the senatorial contest is designed to accommodate other loyalists who have expressed interest in representing Sokoto South in the National Assembly while he focuses on a broader national role in the opposition’s strategy for 2027.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress has unveiled its consensus candidates across various elective positions for the 2027 general elections in Sokoto State. Among the candidates announced, Manir Muhammad Dan’iya, a former Deputy Governor under Senator Tambuwal during his tenure as governor, has emerged as the ADC consensus governorship candidate for the 2027 election. Dan’iya, a close political ally of the former governor who also holds the traditional title of Walin Sokoto, confirmed his emergence in a statement issued by his former Press Secretary, Aminu Abubakar, in the early hours of Friday. He thanked party leaders, stakeholders, elders, youths, women groups, and supporters for the confidence reposed in him.
Describing the development as a major responsibility, Dan’iya pledged to work towards unity, stability and development across the state, noting that the ADC movement represents a fresh push for inclusive leadership, good governance and people-oriented policies. He particularly appreciated Senator Tambuwal for his support and guidance. No fewer than 10 aspirants had initially shown interest in the ADC governorship ticket, including former Ambassador to Jordan, Faruk Malami Yabo. The development has sparked speculation that the influential politician may be positioning himself for a major assignment within the ADC-led coalition, either as a presidential running mate, a strategic campaign coordinator, or a possible contender for another national office.
