TINUBU, APC GOVERNORS IN STRATEGIC TALKS AHEAD OF NEC SHOWDOWN

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday evening presided over a closed-door meeting with governors elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC), in what sources describe as a critical prelude to the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for Thursday. The session, held at the Presidential Banquet Hall of the Aso Rock Villa, commenced amid growing speculation over the future of the party’s leadership and its 2027 political roadmap.

Governors spotted arriving early include Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, who doubles as Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum; Lagos State’s Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti; and Ogun State’s Dapo Abiodun. The attendance of these political heavyweights highlighted the weight of the discussions on the table, especially in light of the party’s recent leadership turbulence and looming strategic decisions.

Insiders revealed that Tinubu used the opportunity to personally brief the governors on key positions he intends to present at the NEC, including leadership transitions, constitutional amendments, and policy alignment in preparation for the next general election. The discreet but powerful meeting reflects an effort by the president to solidify party unity ahead of what many view as a potentially divisive NEC session.

Ganduje’s Exit Leaves Leadership Vacuum and Zoning Debate

At the centre of the NEC deliberations lies the contentious issue of selecting a new National Chairman to replace Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who resigned last month citing health concerns. His exit has left a vacuum at the helm of the APC’s National Working Committee (NWC), sparking debates over interim leadership and zoning arrangements.

Currently, Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Dalori, is steering the party in an acting capacity. However, opinions remain sharply divided on whether he should continue until a formal elective convention is held or if a substantive chairman should be appointed without delay. A faction within the party argues for zoning the chairmanship back to the North-Central zone, in a bid to address complaints of marginalisation.

Among the names being floated as possible successors are former Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Al-Makura, and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. Both men enjoy support within the North Central bloc, a region keen on reclaiming its influence in the APC hierarchy after successive bypasses in top national appointments.

Finances, Congresses, and 2027 Strategy on the Agenda

Beyond leadership questions, Thursday’s NEC meeting—relocated to the State House Conference Centre from the APC national secretariat—is expected to tackle broader administrative and political issues. These include a detailed review of the party’s finances, updates from the Constitution Review Committee, and deliberations on the timetable for congresses and the 2027 elections.

Party insiders say there is growing pressure on the Tinubu administration and the APC to show cohesion and readiness ahead of the next electoral cycle. Discussions may also involve strategy realignment in light of recent defections and internal discontent in some state chapters.

NEC’s decisions on these matters will not only set the tone for the party’s direction in the next two years but may also define Tinubu’s re-election strategy and his grip on the APC as internal factions begin to reposition ahead of 2027.

Historical Precedent and Constitutional Powers at Play

Thursday’s meeting will also be guided by provisions in the APC Constitution, particularly Article 13.3 of the amended 2022 version, which grants the NEC sweeping powers to appoint a National Chairman, form a Caretaker Committee, and take binding decisions on the party’s structure and operations.

Since its formation in 2013, the APC has witnessed a succession of six national chairmen: Chief Bisi Akande (2013–2014), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun (2014–2018), Adams Oshiomhole (2018–2020), Mai Mala Buni (2020–2022), Abdullahi Adamu (2022–2023), and most recently, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje (2023–2025). Each transition brought its own political realignments and internal tensions—trends many within the party hope to avoid this time through consensus.

Analysts believe the ability of the NEC to navigate this leadership juncture peacefully will be a key test of party maturity under Tinubu’s watch. Much also depends on whether the president is able to balance regional demands, party loyalty, and his own political calculations.

Tinubu’s Grip on APC Faces Early Litmus Test

President Tinubu’s meeting with the APC governors marks one of his most significant political maneuvers since assuming office, underscoring both the urgency and delicacy of the NEC decisions. As party leader, Tinubu must walk a fine line between consensus-building and assertive control to prevent the resurgence of internal rivalries that once threatened APC unity.

With multiple stakeholders lobbying behind the scenes, the outcome of today’s NEC meeting will likely reverberate far beyond the party headquarters. The president’s ability to steer the APC through these turbulent waters while consolidating his 2027 base is being watched closely—by allies, rivals, and the broader electorate.

Should Tinubu succeed in guiding the party toward a united front, it will not only solidify his grip on the ruling party but also signal his preparedness to command both governance and political strategy in the years ahead. Conversely, a failure to rally the APC behind a cohesive plan may open the door to deeper divisions and opposition gains ahead of the next general election.