The National Executive Council (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office, signaling strong internal party support as the country moves toward future elections.
The endorsement, which took place during a crucial NEC meeting, came with overwhelming backing for the president's continued leadership of the party.However, the meeting was marked by the notable absence of several prominent party figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and former Governors Rotimi Amaechi, Kayode Fayemi, and Nasir El-Rufai. The absence of these high-ranking officials raised eyebrows and fueled speculation about the current dynamics within the APC.
Despite the absence of these key figures, Tinubu’s endorsement was vocalized by several top APC leaders who expressed their confidence in his leadership and vision for the future. The NEC’s decision to pass a vote of confidence in Tinubu, coupled with the endorsement for a second term, appears to solidify his grip on the party’s direction moving forward.
In his remarks, President Tinubu thanked the APC for the trust and support expressed during the meeting. He pledged to continue working toward improving the nation’s economy, security, and welfare of its citizens, while also urging party members to stay united in the face of any political challenges.
"I am grateful for your continued trust and support," Tinubu said. "As we look to the future, I assure you that together, we will continue to build a stronger Nigeria."
The absence of former President Buhari, who led the country for two terms, has been a topic of conversation among party members and analysts alike. Some political observers have speculated that the ex-president’s absence could signal potential disagreements or a shift in allegiance, though no official reasons have been given for his absence.
Similarly, the absence of Vice President Osinbajo, who had been seen as a potential contender in the past, along with other prominent APC figures like Amaechi, Fayemi, and El-Rufai, has raised questions about the unity within the party. These absences, however, have not dampened the mood at the NEC meeting, where party leaders rallied behind Tinubu’s leadership.
Despite these internal dynamics, the APC remains firmly in support of Tinubu, as shown by the overwhelming endorsement at the NEC. With the party looking toward the future, the president’s second-term bid seems more certain than ever, though the internal rifts could play a role in shaping the political landscape in the months leading to the next general election.
As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes will remain on the APC to see how the party navigates its internal divisions and prepares for the next phase of governance. The endorsement of Tinubu for a second term marks a defining moment for the APC, but the party’s unity and cohesion will be key as it moves forward.
