National News – The Peoples Democratic Party in Jigawa State has declared its intention to contest all elective positions in the 2027 general elections, firmly denying rumours of internal defections.

The announcement was made on Sunday in Dutse by the party’s state chairman, Prof. Babandi Gumel, during a strategic meeting with local government leaders.

The statement comes amid rumours that the party’s 2023 governorship candidate, Mustafa Lamido, may defect to the All Progressives Congress.

Gumel dismissed such claims as political propaganda, insisting the PDP remains cohesive and focused on reclaiming power in the state.

He credited the party’s legacy under former governor Sule Lamido as evidence of its governance capacity, arguing that no rival party has matched its developmental record in Jigawa.

To reinforce its readiness, the PDP has launched an electronic membership registration drive and set up a 13-member committee to oversee nomination processes.

Political observers in northern Nigeria see the move as a preemptive strategy to stabilise the party ahead of intensifying realignments.

In Jigawa, reactions are mixed—loyalists view the declaration as a show of strength, while critics argue that internal fractures may still surface as the election cycle approaches.

The PDP’s stance signals an early battle line for 2027, particularly against the ruling APC.

By denying defections and doubling down on grassroots mobilisation, the party is attempting to project confidence and readiness.

However, Nigerian politics often shifts rapidly, and maintaining unity will be the real test.

If the PDP sustains internal cohesion and leverages its historical appeal, it could re-emerge as a formidable contender in Jigawa.