Political tension is rising in Adamawa State ahead of the 2027 governorship election, as stakeholders express concerns over succession plans and alleged moves to influence the choice of candidates within party structures.

The lingering impact of the 2023 governorship election continues to shape political conversations across the state, with many residents describing the episode as deeply unsettling.

“It was a horrendous event, even to recount,” a public affairs analyst, Ifeanyi Ugwu, said. “The outcome may have restored order, but the scars are still very fresh in the minds of the people.”

During recent visits to the state, Ugwu said he observed heightened anxiety compared to the post-2023 period, with discussions increasingly centred on political control and representation.

“Everywhere you turn, people are talking about taking back their land politically. The tension now is even worse than what I saw after 2023,” he added.

Adamawa, which comprises over 80 indigenous ethnic groups, is witnessing growing agitation among these communities, many of whom insist that the next governor must emerge from their ranks.

A socio-cultural leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the demand reflects long-standing concerns about inclusion.

“The ethnic nationalities are in the majority, and they believe it is only fair that one of their own becomes governor,” the source said. “They are not ready to accept any form of imposition.”

The development is already influencing alignments within the All Progressives Congress (APC), where many of the groups are reportedly gravitating, albeit with conditions.

“Our support is not automatic,” another stakeholder said. “It depends on whether the process is fair and whether the party allows the people to choose freely.”

Many of the groups also expressed confidence in Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, praising his policies on cultural inclusion.

“He has given us a sense of belonging by creating chiefdoms and emirates that were long erased,” one community member said. “We trust him to guide the process and ensure that one of our sons succeeds him.”

However, there are growing allegations of behind-the-scenes manoeuvres aimed at shaping the party’s ticket.

“There are powerful interests trying to misinform the presidency and block the chances of the majority,” another source alleged. “If that happens, it could create serious problems.”

Some stakeholders warned that any attempt to impose a candidate could trigger backlash.

“If the APC insists on imposition, people are ready to resist it, even if it means withdrawing their support,” a political observer said.

The situation, analysts say, may require close attention from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, given the state’s strategic political importance.

“Adamawa is too important to ignore,” Ugwu noted. “If these issues are not carefully managed, the state could slide into deeper political instability as 2027 approaches.”