The political landscape in Zamfara State is heating up as former deputy governor Mahdi Aliyu Gusau has publicly rejected the nomination of Bilyaminu Shinkafi as the governorship candidate for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the upcoming 2027 elections. Gusau's campaign organization claims that Shinkafi's name was improperly uploaded to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal, alleging manipulation of the electoral process.

Gusau, who emerged as the ADC candidate during the party's primary election, secured 35,665 votes, defeating other contenders. His campaign organization asserts that the primary was conducted transparently, with the presence of INEC officials, security agencies, and party delegates from all 14 local government areas of Zamfara State. Following the primary, Gusau was declared the winner by the chairman of the ADC governorship primary election committee.

In a statement, Gusau's organization expressed deep concern over the appearance of Shinkafi's name on the INEC portal, questioning his affiliation with the ADC. They allege that Shinkafi is not a registered member of the party, raising doubts about the legitimacy of his candidacy. The campaign group has vowed to challenge what they perceive as an attempt to undermine the results of the primary election.

The organization called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the results of the primary election. They pointed out that according to the Electoral Act and INEC regulations, a candidate who has participated in the primary election of one political party cannot seek the nomination of another party.

As the 2027 elections approach, the conflict between Gusau and Shinkafi highlights the ongoing tensions within the ADC and raises questions about the party's internal processes. The situation is likely to evolve as both parties prepare for what promises to be a contentious electoral season in Zamfara State.