No fewer than 90 serving senators, nine governors and a deputy governor are set for fierce political battles as the race for seats in the 11th National Assembly gathers momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.
The aspirants, largely drawn from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), have already undergone screening before the party’s committee in Abuja, with many now preparing for direct primaries after resistance to consensus arrangements allegedly backed by some governors.
Party sources disclosed that the APC leadership moved to prevent governors from hijacking the nomination process, while the Presidential Supervision Team reportedly recommended direct primaries in line with Section 87(2) of the Electoral Act 2026 where consensus fails.
The provision states that political parties must revert to direct primaries if all cleared aspirants do not consent in writing to a consensus candidate.
Flashpoints Across Key States
States expected to witness intense political contests include Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Kwara, Kano and Nasarawa.
Governors seeking senatorial seats include Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa) and Babagana Zulum (Borno).
Ogun State Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele is also eyeing a Senate seat.
Several of the governors are expected to face stiff opposition both during party primaries and at the general election.
In Ogun East, Governor Dapo Abiodun is set for a major showdown with former governor and serving senator, Gbenga Daniel, for the APC ticket.
Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe may confront former governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Usman Bayero Nafada and ADC candidate Mustapha Mohammed Aliyu.
In Kwara, Governor AbdulRazaq is expected to square off against a PDP candidate likely to be backed by former Senate President Bukola Saraki.
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa is also facing mounting pressure, with opposition emerging from former NDE Director-General Silas Agara during the APC primaries and possible challenges from former Information Minister Labaran Maku in the main election.
Political observers say Sule’s chances may be complicated by ethnic and religious dynamics in Nasarawa North Senatorial District.
Uzodinma’s Ambition Sparks Tension
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma’s reported senatorial ambition has stirred controversy within APC circles, amid allegations that he seeks to combine his governorship role with a Senate bid.
Sources claimed the controversy contributed to recent tensions within the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), where some governors allegedly questioned his expanding political influence.
According to insiders, there is increasing pressure on the APC leadership to compel Uzodinma to choose between remaining governor and pursuing a Senate seat.
Fresh allegations also emerged that plans were being considered to restructure Imo’s leadership ahead of the elections, although no official confirmation has been issued.
The development has reportedly heightened anxiety among top political stakeholders, especially amid speculations about a future contest for Senate President.
Akpabio, Abbas, Barau Positioned for Return
Meanwhile, indications emerged that Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas may retain their leadership positions if reelected.
Presidency sources said President Bola Tinubu is favourably disposed to maintaining continuity in the National Assembly leadership.
The assurance reportedly influenced Abbas’ decision to abandon his alleged senatorial ambition in Kaduna North.
“The President has no plan to change his core team,” a presidency source said, adding that lawmakers aspiring for principal offices should intensify consultations before making political moves.
Senators Seeking Reelection
Among senators seeking reelection are Idiat Oluranti Adebule, Wasiu Sanni Eshilokun and Adetokunbo Abiru from Lagos; Danjuma Goje and Hassan Dankwambo from Gombe; Abdullahi Yahaya, Garba Maidoki and Adamu Aliero from Kebbi.
Others include Ned Nwoko (Delta North), Efe Dafinone (Delta Central), Emmanuel Udende (Benue North-East), Titus Zam (Benue North-West), Cyril Fasuyi (Ekiti North), Ahmad Lawan (Yobe North) and Kaka Lawan (Borno Central).
With internal party rivalries deepening and powerful political figures seeking strategic positions, the battle for the 11th National Assembly is shaping up to be one of the most competitive contests in recent political history.
