Katsina APC Rift: Radda vs. Masari Ahead of 2027

The political dynamics in Katsina APC are shifting as a power struggle develops between Governor Dikko Radda and the Masari political dynasty. Radda, who served as Chief of Staff under former Governor Aminu Masari and was supported by the Masari camp for his role as head of SMEDAN in 2016, won the governorship with Masari's endorsement in 2023.

However, tensions have surfaced following the destruction of campaign billboards featuring President Bola Tinubu and Ibrahim Masari, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Political Affairs, along the Modoji Junction to Katsina Government House Road. Radda's ADC, SP Abdulganiyu Bello, and Chief Security Officer, DSP Hassan Bello, were summoned for questioning by the Nigeria Police Force regarding the incident.

Additionally, Radda and his allies were notably absent from Tinubu's 2027 Presidential Campaign Council structure, which observers interpret as a sign of Radda's uncertain position in Tinubu's political strategy. The Masari camp's influence, particularly Ibrahim Masari's role, has created two factions within the Katsina APC, raising concerns for Tinubu as he approaches the 2027 elections.