BREAKING NEWS: 2027, Kefas Picks APC Deputy National Women Leader as Running Mate

BREAKING NEWS: 2027, Kefas Picks APC Deputy National Women Leader as Running Mate

Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has officially named Hajiya Zainab Abubakar Ibrahim, the Deputy National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as his running mate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The announcement was made on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting of the APC in Jalingo, bringing an end to weeks of speculation and political consultations over the choice of a deputy governorship candidate.

The decision positions Kefas among the first political leaders in the North-East region to select a female running mate for the 2027 electoral contest, a move that has already generated significant attention within political circles.

Speaking during the meeting, Governor Kefas described Ibrahim as a dedicated party loyalist and a strong advocate for grassroots development. He noted that her wealth of experience in politics and administration would strengthen the party’s efforts as it seeks to continue its development agenda in the state.

According to the governor, the campaign would focus on continuity, security, and economic growth, adding that Ibrahim’s leadership qualities and political influence make her an ideal partner for the journey ahead.

Political observers believe the choice was strategically designed to enhance the party’s appeal across Taraba’s diverse political zones while attracting greater support from women and young voters.

A senior APC member, who spoke anonymously, praised Ibrahim’s political network and grassroots influence, describing her as a capable mobilizer with strong connections across the state’s 16 local government areas.

The nomination has also been welcomed by members of the party’s women wing. Taraba APC Women Leader, Hajiya Aisha Kaigama, described the development as a major step forward for women’s participation in politics, saying Ibrahim’s years of service and dedication to the party have earned her the opportunity.

Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim gained national recognition in 2022 after emerging as APC Deputy National Women Leader during the party’s national convention. Before her national appointment, she played key roles in mobilizing women during the 2019 and 2023 election campaigns in Taraba State.

Known for her advocacy in girl-child education, community development, and rural empowerment, Ibrahim has also represented the APC at several women-focused policy forums within the ECOWAS region.

While many party supporters have celebrated the announcement, political analysts suggest that the APC leadership may need to engage in reconciliation efforts to accommodate other aspirants who had shown interest in the deputy governorship position.

Observers also note that Ibrahim’s position within the party’s national leadership could provide the Taraba APC chapter with stronger access to national structures and campaign resources ahead of the elections.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is expected to release the official list of candidates and their running mates later in the year. Governor Kefas and Hajiya Zainab are anticipated to begin statewide consultations and grassroots mobilization activities in preparation for the 2027 polls.