OTUNBA (DR) ABDULFALIL ABAYOMI ODUNOWO D.Sc h.c
As Nigeria tentatively approaches the halfway mark of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the undercurrents of political ambition for the 2027 general elections are becoming unmistakably evident. Power discussions that once occurred behind closed doors in the corridors of Abuja are now spilling into the public domain, signaling an impending political realignment within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Key figures, such as the party’s National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, are sowing seeds of intrigue that could disrupt the stability of the ruling party.
This subtle but significant shift prompts a critical question: Is the APC prepared to navigate the choppy waters of intra-party politics, or will it risk disintegration under the pressure of emerging regional agendas? The stakes are high, as any misstep could jeopardize the hard-earned gains of the APC and enable a resurgent opposition, currently plotting its own comeback strategies.
The rumblings of a potential ticket overhaul have caused anxiety among party stalwarts and supporters alike. The political narrative suggests that a switch from the Tinubu-Shettima partnership even under the guise of “balancing the ticket” may serve to rally regional interests but ultimately risks offending the delicate equilibrium that secured victory in the fiercely contested 2023 elections.
Critics argue that the power dynamics emerging around the Northwest are superficial, especially when we examine the electoral realities of the past. In 2023, while the APC had a formidable victory numerically, it was the support from the Southwest and parts of the Northeast that truly anchored the party’s success. The Northwest, despite its population, failed to turn the tides as expected, casting doubt on the efficacy of a prescriptive regional strategy. The real risk here is not just an internal power tussle but a fracturing that could embolden opposition forces, particularly the PDP and LP, who are meticulously curating a strategy to capitalize on any dissent within the ruling party.
In this context, the most prudent path forward is for the APC to double down on the Tinubu-Shettima ticket. The proven effectiveness of this partnership, emerging from the ashes of a contentious electoral backdrop, can serve not only as a stabilizing force for the party but also as a cornerstone for unity. Tinubu’s astute political acumen reflected in his ability to manage complex coalitions and navigate economic crises positions him as a formidable force against any opposition challenges come 2027.
Both President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima have earned their roles through a combination of experience, strategic vision, and adaptability. Their collaborative governance style is resonating with a populace increasingly focused on issues of competence and leadership over religious or regional affiliations. As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves, it is imperative that the APC maintain this trajectory, reinforcing a commitment to comprehensive policies while addressing the needs of a diverse electorate.
Moreover, a unified front, represented by the Tinubu-Shettima partnership, is essential to counter any fragmentation that could occur due to narrow political ambitions. The APC cannot afford to experiment with untested formulas that history has shown to be electorally dangerous. The Muslim-Muslim ticket, while initially controversial, has commandingly demonstrated that competence and governance trump pure identity politics. The political landscape of 2027 calls for a bold and cohesive strategy, both in message and action.*
Unity within the APC is not just a strategic advantage; it is a necessity. It is essential for the party to leverage the lessons learned from previous elections, recognizing that voters are increasingly discerning. They seek credibility, vision, and consistency qualities embodied by the Tinubu-Shettima ticket.
As Nigeria watches with careful scrutiny, the APC has a clear choice in front of it: to embrace the Tinubu-Shettima ticket and fortify its position through unity and governance excellence or to risk fragmentation through untimely regional ambitions. The stability, resilience, and effectiveness of the APC hinge upon this decision.
Should the party remain focused on the pathway that has previously led to success, it will be able to position itself favorably against a resurgent opposition. The political landscape of 2027 deserves a ticket that stands as a pillar of strength, competence, and unity. For the APC, forging ahead with Tinubu and Shettima is not merely the best option it is the only option that can secure a bright future for Nigeria. The call for unity is not just a strategy; it is a mandate that history has handed down to the party.
Otunba (Dr) Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo, D.Sc h.c
National Chairman AATSG
Email: nchairman@aatsg.org.ng
Phone: +234-9053535322
Website: www.aatsg.org.ng
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