In a crucial National Executive Committee meeting slated for Thursday in Abuja, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to determine the future of its national leadership following the withdrawal of former chairman Abdullahi Ganduje due to health concerns. However, observers interpret the resignation as a strategic shift within party ranks ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ali Dalori, who stepped in as acting chairman, remains a favorite among several factions to hold the position temporarily until an electing convention can be organized. Party sources, however, highlight a growing push for other notable figures, especially from the North-Central zone, including Tanko Al-Makura and Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.
The APC constitution empowers the NEC to facilitate leadership appointments and caretaker committees, institutionalizing such vital organizational processes. This meeting also promises updates from the Constitution Review Committee and progress reports on party congresses.
Deputy National Secretary Festus Fuanter confirmed for media that nominations may be put forth at the NEC meeting, subject to later confirmation at the Elective Convention, reflecting a phased approach to leadership transition.
Parallel to leadership debates, the party will further the digitalization of membership registration, aiming to smooth enrollment procedures and enable real-time verification to boost membership credibility, as disclosed by Deputy Organising Secretary Eze Duru.
The North-Central APC Forum has emerged as a vocal advocate for restoring the chairmanship to their zone, underscoring the region’s electoral importance and historical stake in the party’s leadership. They rebuff suggestions to extend Dalori’s acting role, framing the need for equitable leadership distribution.
Conversely, representatives from the North-West stress adherence to democratic principles and the party’s constitution as paramount, encouraging acceptance of whichever candidate emerges from the planned consultative processes.
With President Bola Tinubu having met senior party officials recently and expected to attend the NEC meeting, the final decision on leadership is imminent. The meeting is likely to set the tone for the APC’s organizational recovery and strategic positioning ahead of upcoming elections.