Kebbi State's Deputy Governor, Umar Abubakar-Tafida, has strongly refuted claims that his recent replacement as the running mate to Governor Nasir Idris for the upcoming 2027 governorship election was a direct result of the Supreme Court's ruling on the 2023 election. Speaking to a large gathering of supporters in Argungu, Abubakar-Tafida expressed his discontent with the narrative being circulated by his political opponents.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) recently appointed Ibrahim Muhammad-Augie, a former Commissioner for Finance, to take over Abubakar-Tafida's position. This decision has sparked speculation regarding its timing in relation to the Supreme Court's judgment concerning the previous election. However, the deputy governor emphasized that such claims are unfounded and are intended to undermine his reputation.

Abubakar-Tafida stated, "It is wrong to use the legal challenges that followed the 2023 election as justification for my replacement. To capitalize on the technicality presented to the Election Tribunal and later ruled upon by the Supreme Court, and now say that I should be replaced, was totally unbecoming and bogus." He accused those spreading this narrative of having ulterior motives aimed at damaging his political standing.

Despite the change in his political role, Abubakar-Tafida assured his supporters that his relationship with Governor Idris remains intact. He noted that they have collaborated closely for the betterment of Kebbi State. "If what happened is about changes in politics for strategic purposes and winning elections, we have no objection to that," he said, urging his supporters to remain calm amid the political upheaval.

The deputy governor also encouraged a perspective of resilience, stating that political offices are temporary and ultimately governed by divine will. He remarked, "Allah gives power to whom He wants. No man can change that," reinforcing his belief in the transient nature of political positions.

In light of his replacement, Abubakar-Tafida reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and pledged his continued support for both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Idris as they prepare for the 2027 elections. He called for unity among party members and cautioned against tactics that seek to malign individuals within the political arena. "Political changes should be pursued in good faith and in the interest of the party," he concluded, emphasizing that political maneuvering should not come at the expense of personal reputations.