Professor Anthony Agbazuere, a prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, has expressed confidence that the South-East geopolitical zone’s voting patterns will shift in favor of President Bola Tinubu by the 2027 elections. Agbazuere attributes this anticipated shift to President Tinubu’s policies, which he believes have stabilized the Nigerian economy and instilled renewed hope among the populace. He specifically highlighted the removal of fuel subsidies, the creation of the South-East Development Commission, the restoration of local government autonomy, the introduction of student loans, and the modernization of the tax system as key achievements that will resonate with voters in the South-East.
Agbazuere argued that the fuel subsidy removal, while initially controversial, has freed up significant funds for state and local governments, enabling them to undertake developmental projects. He contended that previous administrations had misused the subsidy program, allowing individuals to profit illicitly by selling subsidized fuel across Nigeria’s borders. This removal, he asserted, has redirected these funds back to the Nigerian people through their respective state and local governments. He further praised President Tinubu’s commitment to local government autonomy, criticizing state governors for obstructing the implementation of a Supreme Court judgment that mandates direct disbursement of funds to local governments.
The APC chieftain also emphasized the positive impact of the South-East Development Commission, an initiative designed to address the lingering effects of the civil war in the region. This commitment to the South-East’s revitalization, according to Agbazuere, has significantly enhanced President Tinubu’s standing among the people of the zone. He also highlighted the student loan program as a groundbreaking initiative that ensures access to higher education for children from low-income families, allowing them to complete their university education without financial constraints. Furthermore, he commended the modernization of the tax system, which exempts low-income earners from paying taxes, a move he believes demonstrates President Tinubu’s commitment to economic fairness.
Agbazuere strongly urged individuals contemplating a presidential bid in 2027 to reconsider and allow President Tinubu to complete his two terms, emphasizing the president’s focused and visionary leadership. He argued that President Tinubu inherited a struggling economy burdened by the previous administration’s reliance on printing money to meet financial obligations, a practice he believes would have saddled future generations with debt. He contrasted this with President Tinubu’s decisive actions, suggesting that challenging his leadership would disrupt the positive trajectory he has established. He called for unity within the APC and urged support for President Tinubu’s agenda, which he believes prioritizes the welfare of Nigerians and the nation’s economic stability.
The call for support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid comes amidst a broader effort within the APC to consolidate its presence in the South-East, a region traditionally dominated by other political parties. The party is working towards strengthening its grassroots network and engaging with various stakeholders to broaden its appeal and improve its electoral fortunes in the region. This renewed focus on the South-East is part of the APC’s strategy to secure a stronger national mandate in future elections and solidify its position as the dominant political force in Nigeria. The party views the South-East as a crucial region for achieving its long-term political goals.
The meeting at which Agbazuere made these pronouncements was convened by Chief Ebere Nwachukwu, the leader of the APC in the Ukwa la Ngwa bloc. The gathering served as a platform to encourage unity and mobilization within the party ranks ahead of the upcoming party congress scheduled for October. Beyond the congress, the party is also setting its sights on the 2027 governorship election in Abia State, aiming to wrest control of the state from the ruling party. The meeting underscores the APC’s commitment to building a strong and united front as it prepares for future electoral contests at both the state and national levels. The party sees the upcoming congress as a critical step in strengthening its internal structures and preparing for the challenges ahead.
