The All Progressives Congress (APC) has initiated a concerted effort to mend internal divisions and consolidate its base in Adamawa State, a strategically important region in Nigeria’s political landscape. A newly formed reconciliation committee, comprising eight prominent political figures, has been tasked with bridging the divides that have emerged among party members, chieftains, and influential stakeholders. This move underscores the APC’s recognition of the need for internal unity to effectively challenge the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the upcoming 2027 elections. The committee, chaired by Senator Muhammed Mana, includes other notable figures such as Senators Bello Tukur, Abubakar Girei, Binta Masi, Yusuf Yakubu, Dr. Bridget Zidon, and Isa Baba, who serves as the secretary. Their combined political experience and influence within the state are expected to be instrumental in navigating the complex web of internal grievances and fostering a sense of shared purpose among party members.
The Adamawa State chapter of the APC has been grappling with internal discord, with various factions aligning themselves with different power centers within the party. These divisions, if left unaddressed, could significantly weaken the party’s ability to mount a strong challenge to the PDP in future elections. The reconciliation committee’s primary mandate is to address these internal rifts, bringing together aggrieved members and rebuilding the party’s grassroots network. This involves engaging with party members at the foundational levels—unit, ward, and local government—to understand their concerns, address their grievances, and foster a more inclusive and unified party structure. The committee recognizes the importance of engaging those who felt marginalized during past primaries and general elections, aiming to reintegrate them into the party fold and harness their collective strength.
The reconciliation effort is not merely a reactive measure to address existing divisions, but also a proactive strategy for building a stronger and more resilient party for the future. The committee aims to strengthen the APC’s organizational structure, enhance communication channels within the party, and promote a sense of shared vision and purpose among its members. This includes identifying and nurturing the next generation of APC leaders in Adamawa State, ensuring a pipeline of capable and committed individuals to carry the party forward. The committee’s focus on grassroots engagement is crucial for rebuilding trust and strengthening the party’s connection with the electorate, ultimately contributing to its electoral prospects in 2027.
The APC’s ambitions in Adamawa State extend beyond internal reconciliation; the party is determined to wrest control of the state from the incumbent PDP in the 2027 elections. Senator Mana, the committee chairman, emphasized the strategic importance of Adamawa State and the party’s commitment to securing a majority of seats in the upcoming elections. This ambitious goal requires a united and energized party machinery, capable of mobilizing support and effectively challenging the PDP’s dominance. The reconciliation committee’s work is therefore not simply about resolving internal disputes; it is about building a winning coalition that can deliver electoral victory for the APC.
The committee’s visit to APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje in Abuja signifies the importance of this reconciliation effort to the national party leadership. The meeting allowed the committee to brief the national chairman on their plans and seek guidance and support for their mission. The national party’s backing is crucial for the success of the reconciliation efforts, demonstrating a united front and ensuring that the committee has the necessary resources and authority to carry out its mandate effectively. The meeting also served as an opportunity to align the state-level reconciliation efforts with the national party’s broader strategy for growth and electoral success.
Senator Binta Masi, a member of the reconciliation committee, expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to achieve its objectives, drawing parallels to past successes and invoking divine intervention. Her statement reflects the committee’s determination and optimism, but also underscores the challenges that lie ahead. The reconciliation process will require navigating complex political terrain and addressing deeply rooted grievances. The committee’s success will hinge on its ability to build trust, foster dialogue, and create a sense of shared purpose among the diverse factions within the Adamawa APC. The 2027 elections are still some years away, but the committee’s work now lays the groundwork for the party’s future success in the state.
