2027: Tension Mounts in Adamawa Over Succession Politics, community leader says Imposition will not work

By Tgnews Reporter

Political tension is rising in Adamawa State as stakeholders gear up for the 2027 governorship election, with concerns growing over succession plans, candidate selection, and possible imposition within party structures.

The aftermath of the controversial 2023 governorship election continues to influence discussions in the state. Many residents still view that period as deeply unsettling, with its outcome leaving lasting scars despite restoring some order.

“It was a horrendous event, even to recount,” said public affairs analyst Ifeanyi Ugwu. “The outcome may have restored order, but the scars are still very fresh in the minds of the people.”

Ugwu, who has visited the state recently, noted a higher level of anxiety now compared to the period after 2023. “Everywhere you turn, people are talking about taking back their land politically. The tension now is even worse than what I saw after 2023,” he added.

Adamawa is one of Nigeria’s most diverse states, home to over 100 indigenous ethnic groups. Many of these communities are increasingly agitating for greater inclusion, insisting that the next governor should come from among their ranks to ensure fair representation.

A socio-cultural leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, explained the growing demand: “The ethnic nationalities are in the majority, and they believe it is only fair that one of their own becomes governor. They are not ready to accept any form of imposition.”

These sentiments are already shaping political alignments, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC), which has seen an influx of groups and individuals, including Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

“Our support is not automatic,” said another stakeholder. “It depends on whether the process is fair and whether the party allows the people to choose freely.”

Many groups have praised Governor Fintiri for his policies on cultural inclusion. One community member highlighted his efforts: “He has given us a sense of belonging by creating chiefdoms and emirates that were long erased. We trust him to guide the process and ensure that one of our sons succeeds him.”

However, there are rising allegations of behind-the-scenes moves aimed at influencing the APC’s candidate selection. Some accuse powerful interests of trying to misinform the presidency and block the chances of majority groups.

“There are powerful interests trying to misinform the presidency and block the chances of the majority,” another source alleged. “If that happens, it could create serious problems.”

Stakeholders have warned that any attempt at imposition could spark strong resistance. “If the APC insists on imposition, people are ready to resist it, even if it means withdrawing their support,” a political observer said.

“Adamawa is too important to ignore,” Ugwu noted. “If these issues are not carefully managed, the state could slide into deeper political instability as 2027 approaches.”

Governor Fintiri has publicly stated that the people of Adamawa will decide his successor through the ballot, distancing himself from direct control over the process. Meanwhile, calls for power shift—particularly to the Central Senatorial Zone, which has never produced a governor since the state’s creation in 1991—are gaining attention among youth and other groups.

As political realignments continue, observers say transparent and inclusive processes will be key to maintaining peace and stability in the diverse state ahead of the next election cycle.