Paragraph 1: APC South-South Zone Endorses Tinubu for 2027 Presidency
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone has taken a decisive step towards the 2027 presidential election by unanimously endorsing President Bola Tinubu as their sole candidate. This significant decision emerged from a high-profile zonal stakeholders meeting held in Benin City, the capital of Edo State, on Saturday. The meeting brought together key party figures, including governors, senators, representatives, and other prominent stakeholders from the region. The endorsement reflects the party’s confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and sets the stage for his potential re-election bid.
Paragraph 2: Incumbent Governors Receive Unanimous Backing for 2027 Gubernatorial Elections
In a further display of unity and strategic planning, the APC South-South zone also endorsed the incumbent governors of the four states under the party’s control as their sole candidates for the 2027 gubernatorial elections. This endorsement covers Governor Bassey Edet of Cross River State, who also serves as the South-South APC Coordinator; Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State; Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State; and Governor Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom State. Governors Oborevwori and Eno recently switched allegiance from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, adding to the party’s strength in the region.
Paragraph 3: Formal Adoption of Resolutions and Key Players
The resolutions reached during the stakeholders’ meeting were formally documented in a communiqué read by Chief Victor Giadom, the APC National Vice Chairman for the South-South zone. The motion for the adoption of the communiqué was presented by Professor Julius Ihonvbere, the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, and seconded by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the senator representing Edo North Senatorial District. The proceedings were presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, lending further weight and authority to the decisions taken.
Paragraph 4: Strategic Implications of the Endorsements
The early endorsements of both President Tinubu and the incumbent governors hold significant strategic implications for the APC in the South-South zone. By consolidating support around these candidates well in advance of the 2027 elections, the party aims to project an image of unity and stability, potentially discouraging internal divisions and challenges from opposition parties. This early move also allows the endorsed candidates to focus on governance and delivering on their promises, rather than being distracted by internal party politics or primary elections.
Paragraph 5: Potential Challenges and Future Outlook
While the endorsements demonstrate initial unity and strength within the APC South-South zone, the party must navigate potential challenges in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. Maintaining this unity and cohesion over an extended period will be crucial. The party will need to address any internal dissent that may arise and manage the expectations of various stakeholders within the zone. The political landscape can shift rapidly, and the APC must remain adaptable and responsive to changing dynamics.
Paragraph 6: The Broader Political Context and Significance for the South-South
The APC’s strategic move in the South-South takes place within the larger context of Nigerian politics. The region has traditionally been a stronghold of the opposition, and the APC’s efforts to consolidate its gains and expand its influence are crucial for its national ambitions. The endorsements signal the party’s determination to compete fiercely in the zone and challenge the traditional dominance of other parties. The outcome of the 2027 elections in the South-South will be closely watched as a barometer of the APC’s overall strength and its ability to build a broader national base of support.
