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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Former Governor of Sokoto State and serving senator representing Sokoto South District, Aminu Tambuwal, has withdrawn from the race to return to the National Assembly on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tambuwal’s withdrawal followed what party insiders described as extensive consultations and political realignments within the ADC aimed at strengthening internal unity and promoting younger political voices.
Sources within the party disclosed that the former governor stepped down in favour of Faruk Malami Yabo, a former commissioner in Sokoto State, who is now being positioned as the preferred aspirant for the Sokoto South Senatorial District ticket.
In a related development, Senator Ibrahim Lamido, representing Sokoto East Senatorial District, also pulled out of the senatorial contest after a reconciliation agreement brokered among key stakeholders of the party.
However, the ADC is yet to officially announce a replacement candidate for the Sokoto East senatorial seat.
Meanwhile, indications have emerged that Mani Mainshinku, a member of the House of Representatives representing Silame-Binji Federal Constituency, is being considered by party leaders for the Sokoto Central Senatorial District ticket.
Although the party has not officially stated the reasons behind the withdrawals, insiders said the move aligns with the ADC’s broader strategy of encouraging generational transition and expanding opportunities for younger politicians across Sokoto and other parts of the country.
Speaking on the development, the ADC spokesperson in the state, Alhaji Lamir Ameen, confirmed that both lawmakers had withdrawn from the race.
According to him, “The party is determined to create opportunities for younger politicians to contest elective positions and actively participate in governance both at the state and national levels.”
Ameen further stated that the ADC was intentionally promoting youth inclusion by giving younger aspirants opportunities to emerge in several House of Representatives positions.
“We believe the future of the party and the country lies in encouraging young people to participate fully in the political process. That is why the ADC is committed to inclusiveness and generational transition,” he said.
He also called on party members to unite and put aside internal differences ahead of the 2027 polls.
“There is a need for all members to harmonise their interests and work together with a common purpose if the party must achieve victory in the next general elections,” Ameen added.