The All Progressives Congress (APC) appears to be coalescing around President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as their chosen candidate for the 2027 presidential election, a full three years ahead of the scheduled polls. This preemptive move signals a strategic effort to solidify party unity and project an image of unwavering support for the incumbent president. Twenty-two APC governors, representing the entirety of the party’s gubernatorial control, have unanimously endorsed Tinubu’s prospective second-term bid. This significant display of solidarity was formalized at the APC National Summit held in Abuja, aptly themed “Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far.” The event, attended by a plethora of high-ranking party officials, served as a platform to showcase the party’s alignment with Tinubu’s leadership and his vision for the future.
The endorsement process, orchestrated by the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), followed a clear and deliberate path. Imo State Governor and PGF Chairman, Hope Uzodimma, formally presented the motion to adopt Tinubu as the sole APC candidate for 2027. This motion was then seconded by Kaduna State Governor and PGF Vice Chairman, Uba Sani, furthering the impression of widespread consensus. The subsequent voice vote, met with a resounding standing ovation from the assembled dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and numerous other influential figures within the APC, solidified the message of unified support. This carefully choreographed display served to publicly affirm Tinubu’s position within the party and project an aura of inevitability surrounding his potential re-election campaign.
The governors’ endorsement comes on the heels of a similar declaration by the Northwest faction of the APC just days prior, further underscoring the growing momentum behind Tinubu’s anticipated candidacy. This regional support, coupled with the unanimous backing of the APC governors, paints a picture of a party strategically consolidating its forces early in the political cycle. By securing these endorsements well in advance of the 2027 elections, the APC seeks to minimize potential internal divisions and present a united front to the electorate. This early consolidation of power is a calculated maneuver aimed at deterring potential challengers from within the party and solidifying Tinubu’s position as the undisputed leader of the APC.
The timing of this endorsement is particularly noteworthy. Coming just months into Tinubu’s first term, it serves as a powerful statement of confidence in his leadership and a clear signal of the party’s intention to maintain its grip on power. While such early endorsements can be seen as a strategic advantage, they also carry potential risks. Unforeseen circumstances, shifting political landscapes, and potential public opinion changes over the next three years could render this early commitment a liability. However, the APC appears to be betting on the perceived benefits of early consolidation outweighing the potential risks associated with locking in their candidate so far in advance.
This early and decisive endorsement of Tinubu by the APC governors and other party factions raises several important considerations. Firstly, it suggests a strong desire within the party to avoid internal strife and maintain a cohesive front. By preemptively anointing Tinubu as their chosen candidate, the APC aims to circumvent potential power struggles and prevent the kind of internal divisions that could weaken their position in the 2027 elections. Secondly, it underscores the significant influence wielded by the governors within the APC. Their unanimous endorsement carries considerable weight and sends a strong message to other party members and potential challengers. Finally, it highlights the importance of regional support in Nigerian politics. The prior endorsement by the Northwest faction, a strategically important region, likely played a significant role in paving the way for the broader endorsement by the governors.
In conclusion, the unanimous endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by all 22 APC governors represents a significant political development in Nigeria. This early display of unity and support signals the party’s intention to rally behind Tinubu for a second term and reflects a strategic calculation to consolidate power well in advance of the 2027 elections. Whether this early commitment proves to be a shrewd political maneuver or a premature gamble remains to be seen. However, it undoubtedly sets the stage for what will likely be a closely watched and intensely contested presidential race in the years to come. The APC’s bold move reflects a calculated risk, banking on the stability and continuity that a predetermined candidacy might offer, while also potentially stifling internal competition and debate within the party.
