APC Chairman Yilwatda Urges Northern Support for Tinubu's 2027 Re-election Bid
In a significant political development, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has emphatically stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu merits the full support of Northern Nigeria to secure a second term in the 2027 presidential election. Yilwatda made this declaration during a courtesy visit to former Kano State Governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, at his residence in Kano, as part of efforts to realign the ruling party with influential political leaders in the region.
Equity and Reciprocity as Key Justifications
Professor Yilwatda underscored that Nigeria, particularly the North, is at a pivotal moment that will shape its future. He highlighted the principle of equity, arguing that the South should complete two terms in office, with President Tinubu currently nearing the end of his first term. "We have agreed that the South should complete two terms in office. President Tinubu is about to complete his first term, and we must support him to secure a second term," Yilwatda explained.
He further pointed to the spirit of reciprocity, noting that the late President Muhammadu Buhari served two full terms with unwavering support from Tinubu. "Late President Muhammadu Buhari completed his two terms with the full support of Tinubu. It is now time for the North to reciprocate that support. We must allow Tinubu to complete his second term in office in the spirit of justice and equality," he asserted. Yilwatda, who hails from the North, emphasized his commitment to not damaging the region's interests.
Wooing Shekarau to Rejoin APC
During the visit, Yilwatda appealed to Shekarau to consider returning to the APC, stressing that his re-entry would bolster unity and prosperity in Northern Nigeria. He described Shekarau as a critical figure in Kano politics and reminded him that President Tinubu requires strong support to secure Kano's votes in the 2027 election. "We know Kano is the heart of Northern politics and the APC cannot afford to joke with it. With Malam Shekarau with us, we know we will not have any problem. Once we capture Kano, we will not have problems in Nigeria," Yilwatda added.
He argued that Nigeria needs Tinubu's administration to continue beyond 2027 to complete critical infrastructure and developmental policies, especially those impacting the North. Yilwatda highlighted Shekarau's belief in regional unity regardless of ethnicity or religion, suggesting his return would strengthen the North politically.
Shekarau's Response and Political Context
In response, Shekarau thanked the APC delegation for the recognition and request, noting that he would need to consult with his supporters before making a final decision. He acknowledged that the APC's history is incomplete without his political footprint and mentioned that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to which he currently belongs, is facing serious internal turmoil. "It is a great honour to receive you. You have come at a time when Kano and the North are facing political uncertainty. Our party, the PDP, has been infected by a serious crisis, and because of that we have been looking for a remedy to cure the situation," Shekarau stated.
He assured that the APC's request would be considered, with a public response expected in the coming days. Prior to Yilwatda's visit, Shekarau had held separate closed-door meetings with President Tinubu in Lagos during the Easter break and with Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, alongside APC Chairman Hon. Umar Haruna Doguwa and Commissioner for Transportation Barr. Haruna Isa Dederi. These meetings appear to be strategic moves to woo Shekarau back into the APC fold, aiming to strengthen the party's grip in Kano ahead of the 2027 elections.
The political maneuvering underscores the high stakes involved in securing Northern support for Tinubu's re-election bid, with Kano emerging as a key battleground. As the 2027 election approaches, such alliances and appeals for unity are likely to shape the political landscape significantly.
