President Bola Tinubu has expressed confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC) attracting more members from opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. This statement follows the APC’s National Summit, where the party’s leadership and the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) endorsed Tinubu as their sole presidential candidate.
The endorsements indicate a strong internal consensus within the APC, minimizing potential intra-party challenges to Tinubu’s re-election bid. This consolidation comes amid speculations about opposition parties forming new alliances, possibly under platforms like the African Democratic Congress (ADC), prompting the APC to reinforce its unity early.
Recent political shifts have seen several opposition figures defect to the APC. Notably, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, and the state’s PDP structure have joined the ruling party. Additionally, six House of Representatives members, Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Emomotimi Guwor, and other lawmakers have made similar moves. In Kano State, Senator Kawu Sumaila and some House members transitioned from the NNPP to the APC.
Addressing attendees at the National Summit themed “Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far,” President Tinubu emphasized the constitutional rights of freedom of movement and association. He remarked, “You don’t blame a people bailing out of a sinking ship when there is no life jacket. I am glad about what we have and I am expecting more to come.”
Tinubu also highlighted the ongoing efforts to rejuvenate Nigeria’s economy, stating, “The resuscitation of the Nigerian economy is on course, the hope is standing before you, take it on.” He urged patience among party members awaiting political appointments, assuring them of forthcoming opportunities.
APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje formally declared Tinubu as the party’s sole presidential candidate for 2027, affirming the endorsements from various party organs. The PGF, comprising 22 governors, passed a vote of confidence in Tinubu, with Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma leading the motion. The endorsement received unanimous support from summit participants, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
House of Representatives Speaker Dr. Tajudeen Abbas praised Tinubu’s economic reforms, noting increased public revenues, higher foreign reserves, and restored investor confidence, with GDP growth reaching its highest since 2015.
Reactions to the Endorsement:
- Middle Belt Forum (MBF): National President Dr. Bitrus Pogu criticized the endorsement as self-serving, arguing that it overlooks prevailing economic hardships and escalating insecurity.
- Ijaw National Congress (INC): President Professor Benjamin Okaba expressed concerns about Nigeria’s drift towards a one-party system, interpreting the wave of defections and endorsements as steps in that direction.
- Afenifere: The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, through National Publicity Secretary Mr. Justice Faloye, acknowledged the endorsement as expected but emphasized the need for delivering democratic dividends to Nigerians.
- Conference of United Political Parties (CUPP): National Spokesperson Chief Peter Ameh viewed the endorsement as indicative of internal APC anxieties amid public dissatisfaction with economic conditions, asserting that it doesn’t reflect the electorate’s will.
- READ ALSO:
- Reuters: Nigeria’s ruling party endorses President Tinubu for 2027 re-electionreuters.com
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