The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in the 2027 presidential election. The declaration was made in a statement released after a strategic meeting held in Abuja over the weekend, where the Forum emphasized Tinubu’s contributions to the North-Central zone and Nigeria as a whole.
This endorsement comes amidst growing opposition to Tinubu’s reelection bid from key northern socio-political groups, including the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF). However, the North-Central APC Forum has reaffirmed its loyalty to Tinubu, citing significant benefits the region has derived under his administration.
North-Central APC’s Endorsement: A Case for Tinubu’s Leadership
The Chairman of the North-Central APC Forum, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, highlighted Tinubu’s transformative policies and leadership as reasons for the Forum’s endorsement. He noted that Tinubu’s administration has prioritized the North-Central region in areas such as infrastructure, appointments, and security.
Key Points from the Forum’s Statement
- Infrastructure Development:
The Forum praised Tinubu for initiating and completing major infrastructural projects in the region.“No other President has brought as many infrastructural projects to the North-Central as the Tinubu administration,” the statement read.
- Improved Security:
The Forum noted a significant reduction in insecurity, enabling farmers in the region to return to their farms without fear.“The current level of insecurity in the North-Central is less than what was obtainable during previous administrations,” Zazzaga stated.
- Economic Reforms:
The Forum lauded Tinubu’s economic policies, citing the strengthening of the Naira, increased oil production, rising foreign reserves, and the stabilization of the petroleum sector.
The Forum also expressed optimism that Tinubu would assent to the proposed North Central Development Commission (NCDC) bill once passed by the National Assembly, further cementing his commitment to the region.
Contrasting Voices: ACF and AYCF Oppose Tinubu’s Reelection
While the North-Central APC Forum expressed unflinching support for Tinubu, other northern groups, notably the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), have voiced opposition to his second-term bid.
Reasons for Opposition
- Dissatisfaction with Economic Conditions:
The AYCF, through its President Alhaji Shettima Yerima, expressed regret over supporting Tinubu in 2023, citing Nigeria’s current socio-economic challenges as a major concern. - Preference for a Northern Candidate:
The ACF, in a communiqué signed by its National Publicity Secretary Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, stated its intention to support a northerner for the presidency in 2027.
The ACF and AYCF warned that unless significant improvements are made in Nigeria’s economic and social conditions, they would mobilize the North against Tinubu’s reelection bid.
Defections and Political Realignments in the North-Central
The North-Central region has also witnessed significant political shifts, with lawmakers from other parties defecting to the APC. Recently, two Labour Party members in the House of Representatives—Alfred Ajang Illiya and Daniel Chollom—defected to the APC in Plateau State.
The North-Central APC Forum cited these defections as evidence of Tinubu’s growing acceptance and support in the region.
“The recent defection of lawmakers from the Labour Party to the APC is a sign that President Tinubu is widely accepted in the North-Central,” the statement added.
Key Achievements Under Tinubu’s Administration
The Forum highlighted several accomplishments under Tinubu’s leadership that have earned him their endorsement for a second term:
- Infrastructure Development:
Major projects in transportation, power, and healthcare have revitalized the North-Central region. - Economic Stabilization:
Tinubu’s reforms in the petroleum sector have eliminated fuel scarcity, and efforts to reduce inflation are beginning to yield results. - Security Improvements:
A renewed focus on security has significantly reduced threats in previously volatile areas, restoring confidence among residents. - Inclusive Appointments:
Key appointments from the North-Central zone demonstrate Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring fair representation in his government.
Calls for Nationwide Support
The North-Central APC Forum urged Nigerians from all regions to rally behind Tinubu, emphasizing his bold reforms and visionary leadership. They expressed confidence in his ability to continue addressing the country’s challenges and drive Nigeria toward greater prosperity.
“President Tinubu’s bold leadership has brought significant progress to our region, and we believe he is the right person to continue leading Nigeria,” the Forum declared.
Conclusion: A Divided North Ahead of 2027
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the endorsement of President Tinubu by the North-Central APC Forum highlights the divisions within the North regarding his reelection bid. While the APC Forum remains steadfast in its support, opposition from groups like the ACF and AYCF reflects broader dissatisfaction in parts of the region.
Tinubu’s ability to secure a second term will depend on his administration’s performance over the next three years, particularly in addressing economic challenges, improving security, and fostering national unity.
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