Paragraph 1: The APC’s Crucial NEC Meeting
The All Progressives Congress (APC) convened a highly anticipated National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Wednesday, August 9, 2024, marking a significant moment for the party’s stability and strategic direction ahead of the 2027 elections. This gathering, the first since Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje’s appointment as National Chairman in August 2023, brought together key stakeholders including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, and National Working Committee members. The meeting’s agenda focused on critical issues such as economic recovery, internal party reconciliation, and strategic governance decisions. The NEC meeting followed a caucus meeting the previous day where party leaders lauded President Tinubu’s economic policies, citing positive GDP growth and declining inflation.
Paragraph 2: Solidifying Ganduje’s Leadership and Addressing Internal Dissent
The NEC meeting served to solidify Dr. Ganduje’s position as National Chairman, dispelling prior speculation about his potential resignation. The party unequivocally affirmed his leadership and commitment to his mandate. Prior to the meeting, the APC faced internal dissent, particularly from the North-Central faction, which had been advocating for the national chairmanship to remain within their region. This dissent manifested in legal actions and public protests. However, the North-Central APC Forum recently announced the suspension of their agitation, signaling a willingness to prioritize party unity.
Paragraph 3: Unanimous Vote of Confidence in Tinubu’s Leadership
In a resounding display of unity, the NEC unanimously passed a vote of confidence in President Tinubu and his economic policies. President Tinubu addressed the gathering, expressing his determination to further the country’s progress and assuring attendees that the Nigerian economy was on a path to recovery. He acknowledged the vote of confidence as a call to intensify his efforts and pledged to deliver on his promises to the party and the nation. He expressed gratitude for the support received during the elections and emphasized the importance of collaboration with all branches of government to achieve the best outcomes for Nigerians.
Paragraph 4: Reconciliation Efforts and Addressing Internal Conflicts
Recognizing the importance of internal cohesion, President Tinubu called for measures to address ongoing crises within various state chapters of the party. He encouraged dialogue and collaboration among party leaders to resolve lingering disputes. Dr. Ganduje briefed the NEC on existing reconciliation efforts, highlighting the progress made in mediating between aggrieved members through high-level discussions. He stressed the importance of these efforts in fostering party unity and ensuring future electoral success.
Paragraph 5: APC Secretariat and Financial Challenges
Dr. Ganduje appealed to President Tinubu for support in acquiring a new national secretariat, citing the inadequacy of the current facility. He argued that the existing structure is outdated and unsuitable for the ruling party. He requested President Tinubu’s intervention in securing land from the Federal Capital Territory Administration for the construction of a new secretariat. Furthermore, Dr. Ganduje disclosed that the party inherited a significant debt of N8.9 billion, primarily accumulated from legal expenses related to election litigation. President Tinubu expressed his agreement with the need for a new secretariat and promised to address the issue with the relevant minister.
Paragraph 6: Legislative Support and Buhari’s Absence
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s agenda, particularly in passing legislation aimed at national development and economic improvement. They emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between the executive and legislative branches to achieve shared goals. Former President Muhammadu Buhari’s absence from the NEC meeting was explained by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, who attributed it to a late invitation. Shehu emphasized Buhari’s continued commitment to the APC and his ongoing involvement in party affairs, despite his inability to attend the meeting.
