The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has dismissed claims of a national consensus to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. These claims, spearheaded by Senator Aminu Tambuwal, a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), were characterized by the APC as a desperate attempt to rewrite the narrative of the 2023 elections, which saw Tinubu’s victory. The APC emphasized the overwhelming support Tinubu received across the country, highlighting his election as a testament to the people’s will, contrasting it with what they described as the opposition’s baseless claims. The party firmly stated that the focus of the Tinubu administration is on effective governance and delivering tangible results for the Nigerian people, rather than engaging in political propaganda.
The APC’s response, articulated by the state spokesman, Mr. Seye Oladejo, underscored the perceived disconnect between the opposition’s claims and the reality of the political landscape. Oladejo pointed to the early successes of the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” citing economic stabilization efforts and infrastructure projects as evidence of the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians. He asserted that the positive impact of these initiatives is already being felt across the nation, leading to growing appreciation for Tinubu’s leadership qualities. This, the APC argues, solidifies Tinubu’s position and contradicts the narrative of a national consensus against him.
Furthermore, the APC challenged Tambuwal’s credibility, urging him to address allegations stemming from his tenure as governor of Sokoto State. Oladejo suggested that Tambuwal’s pronouncements are a diversionary tactic, aimed at deflecting attention from unresolved questions regarding his past conduct. The APC emphasized that mere press statements cannot erase the cloud of suspicion surrounding his governorship. This direct attack on Tambuwal’s character serves to undermine the credibility of his claims about a national consensus against Tinubu, portraying him as a politically motivated actor with questionable integrity.
The APC also took aim at the broader opposition, characterizing their attempts to form a unified front against Tinubu as a futile exercise driven by personal ambitions and internal conflicts. Oladejo portrayed the opposition as a disjointed group, whose individual interests and “inflated egos” prevent any genuine collaboration. He expressed skepticism about their ability to forge a cohesive alliance, predicting that their inherent contradictions would ultimately sabotage their efforts. This portrayal of a fractured opposition reinforces the APC’s narrative of a secure and stable government under Tinubu’s leadership.
Moreover, the APC reiterated its commitment to delivering on its promises to the Nigerian people. While acknowledging the political maneuvering of the opposition, the party emphasized its focus on tangible improvements in various sectors, including job creation, infrastructure development, and economic reform. This focus on concrete achievements is presented as a stark contrast to the opposition’s preoccupation with political posturing and media engagements. By highlighting its commitment to governance and tangible results, the APC seeks to further solidify its position as the party best equipped to lead Nigeria.
The APC’s dismissal of the alleged national consensus against Tinubu exemplifies the ongoing political dynamics in Nigeria. The party’s response underscores the deep divisions between the ruling party and the opposition, with each side vying to control the narrative and shape public perception. While the opposition attempts to portray Tinubu’s leadership as precarious and unpopular, the APC emphasizes his strong mandate and the early successes of his administration. This back-and-forth underscores the fluidity of the political landscape and the persistent challenges facing Nigeria as it navigates its democratic journey.
