Labour Party Names Haliru Dikko as New Sokoto Governorship Candidate Following Substitution Primary

The Labour Party (LP) in Sokoto State has elected Haliru Dikko as its new governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections, completing a swift restructuring of its ticket following the exit of its former flagbearer.

Dikko emerged victorious during the party’s substitution primary held in Sokoto, convened after the previous candidate, Aminu Umar Ahmad, resigned from the party and defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Addressing party members and journalists after the exercise, the Sokoto State Labour Party Chairman, Abubakar Yawale, assured stakeholders that the internal primary followed due legal process and conformed strictly to electoral guidelines. He noted that relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), alongside national headquarters officials and INEC monitors, were duly notified of the proceedings.

“All that we need is his consent, and he has given it. His running mate is here, all the party executives are here, and all his documents have been signed,” Yawale stated, emphasizing that Dikko’s background as a grassroots politician with deep experience across local government administration gives the party a formidable footing heading into the 2027 race.

In his acceptance speech, Dikko expressed humility and gratitude to the party hierarchy and delegates, pledging to run an inclusive campaign focused on bringing peace, unity, and economic progress to Sokoto State.

“I pledge to work with our party leadership, candidates, members, and the good people of Sokoto State to build a united, peaceful, prosperous, and progressive Sokoto,” Dikko said. “Together, with the support of our people, we shall present a credible alternative and pursue victory for the Labour Party in 2027.”

Political analysts note that the rapid substitution fills a critical leadership vacuum for the opposition party in the state, setting the stage for an energized campaign as the electoral timeline for 2027 progresses.