The Jigawa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially denied claims made by Vice President Kashim Shettima regarding the political stance of former Governor Sule Lamido. The party clarified that the prominent political figure has not offered any endorsement to President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 general elections.
In a direct response to the Vice President’s assertions, the Jigawa PDP cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Presidency to cease using Mr Lamido as a political tool. The party described the recent comments as an attempt to use the former governor as a proxy spokesperson to advance the APC’s narrative and create a false sense of political alignment in the North.
The dispute emerged following statements by Vice President Shettima that suggested Lamido’s political leanings had shifted towards the incumbent administration. The Jigawa PDP’s rebuttal seeks to correct the record and prevent the misrepresentation of its influential members ahead of the next election cycle.
Political maneuvering ahead of 2027
Sule Lamido remains one of the most significant political actors in Jigawa State and a heavyweight within the PDP. His influence over local voting blocs makes any perceived shift in his loyalty a high-stakes development for both the APC and the PDP.
The party maintained that the claims made by the Vice President are baseless and intended to cause internal friction within the opposition. By issuing this denial, the Jigawa PDP is attempting to consolidate its ranks and prevent the ruling party from claiming endorsements that have not been granted.
Political analysts suggest that the friction reflects the intensifying competition for dominance in Northern Nigeria. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, political actors are increasingly engaging in preemptive messaging to build momentum and weaken opponents.
The Jigawa PDP has indicated that it will continue to defend its members against attempts to co-opt their political identities for the purposes of the APC’s campaign strategies. The party is currently focusing on internal restructuring to strengthen its position in the state ahead of upcoming electoral contests.
The presidency and the APC have yet to issue a formal follow-up response to the Jigawa PDP’s denial.
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