Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi has settled months of political uncertainty by officially naming his deputy, Engr. Aminu Usman Gumel, as his running mate for the 2027 governorship race.
The announcement came as Namadi received a delegation from the Gumel Emirate at the Government House in Dutse.
Namadi said Gumel's competence, professionalism and unwavering loyalty to his administration made the choice straightforward. The governor highlighted how his deputy has consistently backed the state's development agenda and earned another shot at serving alongside him.
The confirmation ends widespread rumours that Namadi might dump Gumel before the 2027 election. Speculation had intensified partly because Gumel maintains close ties to former Governor Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, with whom Namadi had strained relations until they recently reconciled.
Gumel responded by thanking Namadi and the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership for their confidence in him. "I'm aware many people are more qualified than me for this opportunity, yet the Governor deemed me worthy to serve as his running mate," he said.
The deputy governor pledged to remain steadfast in supporting Namadi's vision for the state. "I'm deeply grateful to the Governor and party stakeholders for this chance.
I will give my best to ensure this administration succeeds and the state continues to develop," Gumel added.
Political watchers say the move reinforces the strength of the Namadi-Gumel partnership heading into the 2027 race. The APC ticket now appears solidly locked in, removing doubt that had hung over Jigawa's political landscape in recent months.
