The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has thrown its weight behind Senator Tanko Al-Makura, a former governor of Nasarawa State, as their preferred candidate for the national chairmanship of the party. This endorsement, announced in a statement released in Abuja, follows extensive consultations with key stakeholders within the North-Central APC. The Forum argues that Al-Makura’s extensive political experience, deep understanding of the party’s internal workings, and unwavering loyalty to the APC and President Bola Tinubu make him the ideal candidate to lead the party. They emphasize the importance of returning the chairmanship to the North-Central zone, in line with the party’s zoning arrangement, a position previously held by Abdullahi Adamu, also from Nasarawa State, before his resignation.
The Forum’s endorsement of Al-Makura is rooted in several key factors. Firstly, they highlight the fact that he represents the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc, one of the three legacy parties that merged to form the APC. Neither of the other two legacy parties, the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), has yet to produce a national chairman, making Al-Makura’s candidacy a matter of equity and representation within the party’s internal power dynamics. Secondly, the Forum emphasizes Al-Makura’s significant experience in various party roles, including chairing crucial committees such as the Ekiti State APC Primary Election Committee in 2018 and the North-East Zone Reconciliation Committee, also in 2018. This involvement, they argue, has provided him with invaluable insight into the party’s operations and the complexities of its internal politics.
The Forum’s statement details Al-Makura’s extensive political trajectory, spanning several decades and different political parties. From his early involvement as a youth leader in the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1979, to his role as a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 1999, and ultimately his governorship under the CPC in 2011, Al-Makura’s political journey showcases his adaptability and experience across different political landscapes. His role as a pioneer member and signatory to the merger that formed the APC in 2013 further solidifies his commitment to the party’s foundational principles and his deep understanding of its historical context. The Forum portrays Al-Makura as a seasoned politician with a proven track record of leadership and a deep commitment to the APC’s success.
Beyond his political experience, the Forum underscores Al-Makura’s loyalty to the APC and President Tinubu. They recall his instrumental role in ensuring the CPC bloc remained committed to the party and the President during a period of potential fracturing within the coalition. This steadfastness, they argue, demonstrates his commitment to party unity and his ability to navigate complex internal dynamics. Furthermore, the Forum highlights Al-Makura’s reputation as a “bridge builder and advocate for inclusivity.” They point to his personal connection to Nigeria’s disability community, as someone living with a disability himself, as evidence of his commitment to representing marginalized groups and fostering a more inclusive political environment.
The Forum’s statement strategically positions Al-Makura as a consensus builder, experienced leader, and loyal party member. They portray him as a figure capable of unifying the various factions within the APC and strengthening the party’s overall cohesion. By emphasizing his experience in managing complex political situations and his deep understanding of the party’s internal workings, the Forum presents Al-Makura as a pragmatic choice for national chairman, someone capable of navigating the challenges that lie ahead. They also subtly emphasize the importance of respecting the zoning arrangement and returning the chairmanship to the North-Central zone, highlighting Al-Makura as the ideal candidate to fulfill this requirement.
In conclusion, the North-Central APC Forum’s endorsement of Tanko Al-Makura for the national chairmanship represents a strategic move to position a candidate they believe possesses the necessary experience, loyalty, and unifying qualities to lead the party. They emphasize his extensive political background, his commitment to the APC’s principles, and his ability to bridge divides within the party. By highlighting his past roles in managing internal party affairs and his steadfast loyalty to President Tinubu, the Forum aims to present Al-Makura as the best choice to navigate the complex political landscape and strengthen the APC’s position as the ruling party. Furthermore, they underscore the importance of upholding the party’s zoning arrangement, further solidifying Al-Makura’s suitability for the role.
