The Adamawa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has firmly dismissed speculation that it is considering replacing Alhaji Tijani Galadima as its governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 general election, describing the reports as baseless and without any foundation within the party.
The clarification comes amid growing political discussions and internal debates within the party over preparations for the next governorship contest in the North-East state. While some party members and observers have raised concerns about Galadima’s visibility and political activities in Adamawa, party leaders insist that he remains the APC’s undisputed flagbearer for the election.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, the APC Publicity Secretary in Adamawa State, Dogo Victor, categorically denied claims that there were plans to substitute Galadima with another aspirant.
According to him, reports suggesting a possible change of candidate were mere rumours designed to create confusion within the party and among its supporters.
“We are hearing all these allegations over plans to change Galadima; there is nothing like that. He is the 2027 governorship candidate of the ruling APC in Adamawa State, take it from me as the spokesman of the party in Adamawa State,” Victor stated.
His remarks appear aimed at putting to rest the speculation that has been circulating in political circles in recent weeks regarding the party’s strategy ahead of the next election cycle.
The issue gained attention following concerns expressed by some stakeholders within the APC over Galadima’s perceived absence from the state and what critics describe as insufficient engagement with grassroots supporters.
Some party loyalists had reportedly questioned whether the candidate was maintaining the level of visibility required to strengthen the party’s structures and consolidate support across local government areas.
Political analysts note that grassroots mobilization remains a critical factor in Adamawa politics, where voter loyalty is often influenced by direct engagement with communities, traditional institutions, youth groups, women’s associations and local party structures.
As a result, concerns about Galadima’s presence in the state have sparked conversations among party members eager to see the APC mount a strong challenge in the next governorship election.
However, the party leadership insists that such concerns should not be interpreted as evidence of division or a plan to replace the candidate.
According to APC officials, the party remains focused on strengthening its structures and preparing for future political contests rather than engaging in internal disputes over candidacy.
The reaffirmation of Galadima’s candidacy is expected to provide some level of certainty within the party as it begins long-term preparations for the 2027 elections. Party leaders believe that maintaining a clear position on the issue will help prevent unnecessary distractions and allow members to concentrate on mobilization efforts.
Observers say the development reflects the intense political maneuvering that often begins years before major elections in Nigeria. Although the 2027 governorship election is still some distance away, discussions surrounding potential candidates, alliances and campaign strategies have already begun to shape political conversations across Adamawa State.
The APC, which remains one of the dominant political forces in the state, is expected to face stiff competition from rival parties seeking to retain or expand their influence. Consequently, any speculation regarding leadership or candidate selection is likely to attract significant public attention.
For now, however, the party leadership appears determined to project unity and stability. By publicly reaffirming Galadima’s position, the APC is sending a signal that it remains committed to its current political direction despite the concerns being raised by some members.
Political stakeholders will be watching closely in the coming months to see whether Galadima increases his presence within the state and intensifies engagement with grassroots supporters. Such efforts could help address concerns about visibility and strengthen confidence among party faithful ahead of the crucial election season.
As political activities gradually gather momentum across Adamawa, the APC leadership maintains that there is no crisis regarding its governorship ticket and that Alhaji Tijani Galadima remains the party’s recognized candidate for the 2027 governorship race. The party’s latest position is expected to temporarily calm speculation, even as debates over strategy and electoral readiness continue within its ranks.
