APC Chairman Announces Exclusive Appointment Policy for Party Loyalists Post-2027
In a declaration that has ignited intense political discourse across Nigeria, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has firmly stated that political appointments following the 2027 general elections will be strictly reserved for committed party members. This announcement, made during a key party mobilization event in Abuja, signals a significant shift in the ruling party's approach to governance and reward systems.
Governance and Politics Are Inseparable, Says APC Leader
Speaking at the "Renewed Hope Promise Kept 2027: Meet and Greet North-West Mobilisation" event organized by Minister of State for Works Bello Goronyo on Tuesday, January 20, Nentawe emphasized that governance cannot be separated from political activism. He told gathered party supporters that those appointed to government positions must actively defend the political platform that brought them to power, rather than retreating into technical roles.
"We should always look back and remind ourselves of what brought us here. It is votes. There is no vote called technocrats. Once you are given a political appointment, you are a politician. Simple," Nentawe declared, dismissing the notion that technocratic competence should exist independently from political responsibility.
Nationwide Debate Erupts Over Meritocracy Concerns
The video of Nentawe's remarks circulated widely on social media platforms on Wednesday, triggering widespread debate across political and governance circles. While APC loyalists have welcomed the stance as a necessary move to strengthen party discipline and reward commitment, opposition parties and governance experts have expressed serious concerns.
Critics warn that sidelining qualified professionals who may not have firm party affiliations could weaken public institutions and undermine merit-based governance. They argue that Nigeria's complex challenges require the best available expertise, regardless of political affiliation.
"As party chairman, I will stand strong to defend the position that if you are not prepared to join us, you shouldn't be given an appointment. If you are a technocrat, go and be a consultant," Nentawe added, reinforcing his position that political appointments should serve as rewards for party loyalty rather than recognition of professional expertise alone.
North-West Region Identified as Crucial Electoral Battleground
During his address, Nentawe highlighted the strategic importance of the North-West region to the APC's electoral success. He revealed that the zone accounts for approximately 20 percent of the party's nationwide membership, with nearly half of these members falling between the ages of 18 and 35.
"Out of the registered members in the North-West, 48 percent are between the ages of 18 and 35. This means young people own this party," Nentawe stated, emphasizing the demographic advantage the party enjoys in this crucial region.
He warned that the APC could lose power if political appointees focus solely on technical responsibilities without engaging in grassroots mobilization and political advocacy. According to Nentawe, government policies represent campaign promises that must be actively explained and promoted by those implementing them.
Senior Official Supports Party-Loyalty Approach
Special Adviser on Policy Coordination and Head of the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit, Hadiza Bala-Usman, echoed Nentawe's position during the event. She noted that the North-West delivered the highest number of votes for the APC in the 2023 elections and must maintain unity to surpass this performance in 2027.
"We are a vote basket and we must retain that," Bala-Usman emphasized, underscoring the region's critical role in the party's electoral strategy.
Broader Political Context and Implications
This announcement comes amid broader political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections. Nentawe had previously declared the APC's readiness to reclaim Plateau State from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, indicating the party's aggressive expansion strategy.
The declaration raises fundamental questions about:
- The balance between political loyalty and professional competence in governance
- The potential impact on Nigeria's public service effectiveness
- The role of technocrats in political administrations
- The evolving nature of party politics and reward systems in Nigeria's democracy
As the debate continues to unfold, political analysts are closely watching how this policy will affect the APC's appeal to independent professionals and the broader implications for Nigeria's governance landscape in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
