State governor dumps deputy, picks new running mate
The Kebbi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has replaced Deputy Governor Umar Abubakar Tafida Arugungu as Governor Nasir Idris’ running mate for the 2027 governorship election.
The party announced former Kebbi State Commissioner for Finance, Ibrahim Muhammad Augie, as the new running mate during a meeting with political stakeholders from the Argungu Emirate at the Presidential Lodge in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday.
The announcement was made by the APC National Organising Secretary, Suleiman Muhammad Argungu, who said the change followed legal advice on the eligibility of the current deputy governor to contest the 2027 election alongside Governor Idris.
According to the party, the decision was reached after consultations and with the knowledge and consent of Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida Arugungu.
The APC also rejected claims that the change was caused by a political disagreement between the governor and his deputy.
The party called on its members and supporters across Kebbi State to accept the new arrangement and remain united ahead of the 2027 election.
Party leaders also urged supporters to focus on maintaining the APC’s strength in the state and supporting the administration of Governor Idris.
Governor Nasir Idris also denied reports of a dispute between him and the outgoing deputy governor.
He said the change should not be seen as a sign of division within the administration or the party.
Idris said he was ready to work with Ibrahim Augie as his new running mate and called on APC supporters to remain committed to the party and its programmes.
Ibrahim Muhammad Augie previously served as Commissioner for Finance in Kebbi State under former Governor Atiku Bagudu.
He is from Augie Local Government Area of the state and is now set to join Governor Idris on the APC ticket as the party prepares for the 2027 governorship contest.
