APC Chieftain Announces Major Political Realignment Ahead of 2027 Elections
Comrade Isaac Balami, a prominent youth leader and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has extended congratulations to Professor Nentawe Yilwatda on his re-election as the party's national chairman. Balami described the APC's recent national convention as a highly successful and unifying event that signals growing internal stability within the ruling party.
Strategic Integration of Obidient Movement Structure
In a significant political development, Balami announced plans to collapse and move over 70 percent of the "Obidient" structure into the APC. This movement, originally built around support for the Labour Party's presidential ticket in previous elections, represents millions of politically conscious and highly mobilised young Nigerians.
"As part of our commitment to national progress, I am proud to announce the integration of a significant portion of about 70 percent of the Obidient structure we built over the years into the APC," Balami stated in a personally signed statement made available to media outlets.
The former deputy campaign manager for the Obi/Datti presidential ticket under the Labour Party explained that his decision stems from a clear conviction in the leadership direction of both the APC and the current administration. He emphasised that this move forms part of a broader political realignment aimed at consolidating youth support and strengthening grassroots structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Focus on Youth Inclusion and Grassroots Mobilisation
Balami stressed the importance of youth inclusion in Nigeria's political landscape, noting that the energy, organisation, and commitment demonstrated during the Obi/Datti campaign would now be deployed within the APC to achieve greater national impact. He highlighted that the structure built during that campaign demonstrated capacity, discipline, and reach across both northern and southern regions of the country.
"During the Obi/Datti campaign, we demonstrated capacity, discipline, and reach across both the North and the South. We did not just make noise, we built a movement. That same energy, organisation, and commitment will now be deployed within the APC to achieve even greater national impact," Balami elaborated.
Addressing Concerns and Political Realities
The APC chieftain acknowledged that some members of the Obidient movement might hesitate to join the APC due to public perception concerns. However, he urged them to take what he described as a bold and realistic step, insisting that political relevance must be tied to viable structures.
"For those who are still hesitant, I urge you to reflect on the realities of our political system. Elections are won not just by passion, but by structure, reach, and strategic positioning. Where such structures are weak or non-existent, efforts, no matter how noble, may not translate into electoral success," Balami advised.
Inclusion of Marginalised Regions
Balami further argued that the current administration has provided unprecedented inclusion for minority ethnic nationalities in the Middle Belt, cutting across both Muslim and Christian communities. He stressed that future presidential hopefuls must prioritise inclusiveness, particularly for historically marginalised regions, if they hope to gain broad national acceptance.
The APC youth leader also addressed criticisms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that some critics have misunderstood the president's intentions. According to Balami, Tinubu has shown willingness to be inclusive and create opportunities for young people and previously underrepresented groups.
Grassroots Mobilisation Strategy
Looking ahead, Balami revealed plans to intensify grassroots mobilisation, particularly across Northern Nigeria in the coming weeks. He described the unfolding developments as a strategic alignment that will redefine political participation among young people.
"What is unfolding is a strategic alignment that will redefine political participation among young people. The message is clear; the structure is solid, the movement is evolving, and the road to 2027 is already being firmly established," he added.
Confidence in Enhanced Electoral Strength
Balami expressed confidence that the integration of youth-driven political structures into the APC would significantly enhance the party's electoral strength, positioning it for a more decisive victory in the next election cycle. He believes this move will contribute to the party's Renewed Hope agenda and strengthen its position ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The announcement comes following the APC's eighth national convention, where Professor Nentawe Yilwatda was returned as national chairman and Ajibola Basiru as national secretary through consensus arrangements. The party had affirmed it would retain existing zoning arrangements for all national working committee positions during the convention.
