In a significant political move, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have begun campaigning for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, despite the administration being less than two years old. Prominent figures, including National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, are advocating for Tinubu’s second term.
During a recent gathering at the APC headquarters in Abuja, Ganduje urged Northern politicians with presidential ambitions to delay their aspirations until 2031, after Tinubu’s potential second term. Akume echoed this sentiment on a television program, advising political figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to refrain from seeking the presidency in 2027.
Campaign activities have already started in states such as Kaduna, Kebbi, and Kwara, with re-election billboards for Tinubu appearing across Abuja. A prominent rally in Kebbi showcased high-profile APC leaders promoting the president’s achievements and calling for continued support.
However, these early campaigning efforts have drawn criticism from opposition parties and political analysts, who argue that they violate the Electoral Act and the 1999 Constitution. Legal experts assert that such premature campaigns undermine democratic integrity, with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act stipulating that official campaigning can only begin 150 days before an election.
Political analysts have described the early campaigns as a sign of desperation from the ruling party, suggesting that it reflects a lack of governance focus. Paul Ibe, Atiku’s spokesperson, dismissed the claimed support for Tinubu as inconsequential, indicating that it stems from a lack of genuine political influence.
As the political landscape heats up, calls for stricter enforcement of electoral regulations are growing, with concerns about the implications for Nigeria’s 2027 elections. The presidency has yet to respond to the escalating controversy surrounding these early campaigning activities.
