The 2027 Borno State governorship race is heating up, with Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan (SAN) emerging as a prominent contender. Representing Borno Central in the 10th Senate under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Lawan’s political trajectory and recent activities position him as a formidable candidate. Below is an analysis of why Senator Kaka Lawan is considered “the man” for the governorship race, based on his background, achievements, and current sentiment.
Why Senator Kaka Lawan Stands Out
-Proven Political and Legal Pedigree
Kaka Shehu Lawan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has a robust history in both legal and political spheres. He served as Borno State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice from 2014 to 2022 under then-Governor Kashim Shettima and continued under Governor Babagana Zulum.
His tenure as a legal adviser and commissioner earned him praise for administrative excellence, with the Chief Judge of Borno, Justice Kashim Zannah, commending his leadership at the bar. His elevation to SAN in 2024, celebrated by figures like Governor Zulum and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, underscores his professional credibility and influence.
-Grassroots Empowerment Initiatives:
Lawan has demonstrated a commitment to his constituents through significant empowerment programs.
In April 2025, he distributed items worth over N790 million, including tricycles, pick-up vehicles, sewing machines, deep freezers, solar pumps, and cash grants to over 3,900 beneficiaries in Borno Central. Governor Zulum flagged off this initiative, praising Lawan’s loyalty to the APC and his dedication to alleviating economic hardship. Such initiatives strengthen his grassroots appeal, a critical factor in gubernatorial elections.
-Legislative Achievements
As a first-term senator, Lawan has made notable legislative contributions. He sponsored bills for the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship in Bama and a Federal Medical Centre in Borno, earning accolades from Zulum for unprecedented contributions to the state. His role as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties further amplifies his influence in national politics.
-Strong Political Backing:
Lawan enjoys support from key APC figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Zulum, and APC Deputy National Chairman (North) Ali Bukar Dalori. His victory in the 2023 Borno Central senatorial election, affirmed by both the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, was backed by these leaders, signaling their trust in his leadership. Posts on X also highlight his prominence, with some users estimating a “75% possibility” for Lawan in the governorship race.
-Vocal Advocate for Borno’s Security:
Lawan has been outspoken on critical issues like insecurity, challenging the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, to focus on promoting government policies rather than politicizing Borno’s Boko Haram crisis. His alignment with Zulum’s security efforts, including the governor’s provision of vehicles and housing to security agencies, positions him as a leader attuned to Borno’s challenges.
The 2027 Governorship Race Context
Recent posts on X indicate that the 2027 Borno governorship race has begun, with Lawan listed alongside other contenders like Abubakar Kyari, Mele Kyari, and Muktar Aliyu Betara. However, Lawan’s combination of legislative success, empowerment programs, and endorsements gives him an edge. His long-standing relationship with Zulum, who has called his performance “second to none,” suggests potential gubernatorial backing, especially as Zulum’s tenure ends in 2027.
Challenges and Considerations
While Lawan is a strong candidate, the governorship race will not be without challenges:
– **Competition**: Other contenders like Abubakar Kyari, a former senator, and Muktar Betara, a federal lawmaker, have their own political networks.
– **APC Primaries**: The APC’s adoption of indirect primaries in past elections, as seen in 2018, could influence candidate selection. Lawan’s strong party loyalty, however, positions him favorably.
– **Security and Economic Issues**: Borno’s ongoing security challenges and economic hardships will demand a governor with proven administrative and crisis management skills, areas where Lawan has experience but will need to sustain voter confidence.
Conclusion
Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan (SAN) is a leading figure in the 2027 Borno governorship race due to his legal expertise, legislative achievements, and extensive empowerment initiatives. His strong ties to APC heavyweights like Zulum and Shettima, coupled with grassroots support, make him a compelling choice. As one X user noted, Lawan has a significant chance of clinching the ticket, reflecting public sentiment. To solidify his position, he must continue addressing Borno’s pressing issues and maintain his political alliances. For now, Senator Kaka Lawan is indeed “the man” to watch in this unfolding race.
AMECHI. P writes from Lagos.
