The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has brushed aside worries about the recent political engagements involving former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, allies of ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and opposition Social Democratic Party (SDP).
El-Rufai, a notable member of the APC, had a private meeting last week with SDP leaders and influential members from Atiku’s team. Attendees included Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, who was formerly General Sani Abacha’s Chief Security Officer, and Otunba Segun Showunmi, previously an aide to Atiku.
Although the specifics of the meeting remain confidential, it has ignited speculation about a possible alliance to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
The APC, on the other hand, has dismissed the importance of the meeting, asserting that it is not concerned about what seems to be a political alliance between these individuals. Showunmi subsequently posted details of the meeting on his Facebook page, sparking more conversations about evolving opposition dynamics.
The APC’s response indicates that it is confident in its stance and largely unfazed by the opposition’s maneuvering leading up to the 2027 election cycle.
Many suggest that the political grandstanding is linked to efforts by Ibrahim Shekarau, a former governor of Kano State, and certain elites within the League of Northern Democrats. They aim to attract influential southern figures for an alliance in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
On January 5, Dr. Umar Ardo, the Convener of the LND, announced that the group was prepared to transition into a political party in order to establish a unified and credible national political platform.
The National Chairman of the SDP, Shehu Gabam, has refuted claims that there is an alliance with Atiku and El-Rufai.
Gabam mentioned that the SDP is currently focused on fortifying its structures and providing Nigerians with credible alternatives.
In response to the development, Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, the National Vice Chairman of the APC for the South-East, stated that the ruling party was unconcerned about actions taken by opposition figures.
He stated, “As it’s written in the Bible, they will inevitably gather and then disperse. We aren’t concerned about their gathering because we are confident that they will eventually scatter. We’re not worried about El-Rufai’s future actions either; we’re aware that his political path is currently quite unstable.”
After the 2023 election, he revealed himself as an unreliable figure across various regions. His disparaging remarks about Christians in Nigeria, a secular nation, have rendered him socially isolated. People tend to keep their distance from him. El-Rufai’s actions appear driven by a desire for recognition; I find it puzzling that the media continues to give him attention.
We aren’t concerned about the so-called alliance as it will prove to be insignificant. It’s merely a group of discontented individuals attempting to heal their grievances. Tinubu is still president, and there isn’t anyone who can prevent him from succeeding in 2027.
Arodiogbu continued by stating that the controversial reforms, which the opposition might be planning to use in their campaign, are presently delivering the expected results anticipated by Nigerians.
The APC leader also stated that the citizens cannot risk handing over leadership to desperate politicians who are solely interested in seizing control of the state.
He mentioned that they are not concerned about El-Rufai and his group. He wondered what their campaign platform would be in 2027, questioning if they’d suggest reintroducing fuel subsidies—a notion he deemed unlikely. He expressed confidence that the country is on a path to regaining its past glory, noting improvements with stability being restored and people beginning to see hope for the future.
People are starting to grasp the core of all the reforms President Bola Tinubu has enacted. Did you see reports suggesting that PMS may sell at N500 by mid-year? It’s clear that the advantages and positive outcomes of the President’s policy reforms are beginning to materialize.
This is because we have let market forces set the prices, alleviating the economic and currency strain caused by fuel subsidies. We are now exploring opportunities to export fuel beyond Nigeria’s borders. This represents a significant advantage for our country, giving us hope for a much brighter future in Nigeria.
The Deputy National Organising Secretary of the APC, Nze Chidi Duru, stated that the party is currently unable to take any action regarding the immediate past governor of Kaduna until he clarifies his political future plans.
He stated that El-Rufai has the constitutional right to associate and interact with anyone he chooses.
He stated, “We live in both a democracy and a republic. Our constitution enshrines the freedom to hold opinions, express them, and associate with others. These are fundamental rights protected by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. As long as these gatherings comply with national laws, they are encouraged.”
I’m not at all bothered by the current speculation. Until a decision is made, we aren’t in a position to speculate. The government focuses on certainty and objectivity, not conjecture.
However, if defection occurs, the government and especially the party will address it thoroughly and effectively. The party will remain committed to its manifesto while ensuring that it delivers on democratic promises for the benefit of this country’s citizens.
Currently, only a small portion of the entire Nigerian population belongs to political parties. This is why after elections conclude, the focus shifts from party activities to governance. Ultimately, it is this aspect—governance—that will determine how the party is evaluated in the long run.
Peoplesmind
