President Bola Tinubu has openly shared his apprehension regarding the conduct of internal politics within the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the grassroots level, as the nation looks towards the 2027 general elections.
Tinubu's Core Concern: Ward and State Executive Committees
The Nigerian leader identified the party's ward, local government, and state executive committees as his primary "concern". Speaking at a crucial party gathering, Tinubu revealed his fear of imposition in local-level politics within the ruling APC. He emphasized that such practices are unnecessary and counterproductive to the party's democratic ideals.
This significant disclosure was made on Friday, December 19, 2025, during the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the APC. The meeting was held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, the nation's capital.
A Call for Accommodation and Resilience
In a reflective and spiritually-toned address, President Tinubu recounted the challenges faced during the previous election cycle, positioning himself as a symbol of divine intervention. He cited obstacles like the currency redesign policy and fuel scarcity, which he claimed were designed to hinder his path to victory.
"God got us here. I am a symbol of that God," Tinubu stated. He urged party faithful to remain faithful, resolute, and committed to ensuring Nigeria's democracy does not fail.
The President called for greater tolerance and accommodation within the party's ranks. Using a vivid metaphor, he advised members with influence to "create a little bit of room for your neighbour who is outside or who is just coming in." He warned that shutting out others was a needless act, as only those destined for leadership would ultimately attain it by divine will.
Context of the NEC Meeting and Political Implications
Friday's assembly marked the party's second NEC gathering in 2025, following an earlier session in February. It was also the first such meeting since Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda assumed office as the APC national chairman in July of the same year.
Tinubu's comments come at a critical juncture, roughly two years before the next presidential election. By highlighting the risk of imposition—a practice where party leaders handpick candidates instead of allowing democratic primaries—the President is signaling a desire for more transparent and inclusive internal processes. This move is likely aimed at fostering unity, mitigating internal grievances, and strengthening the party's structure from the bottom up ahead of the intense 2027 election season.
The President's full speech from the event has been captured on video and is circulating online, allowing party members and the public to hear his message directly.
