Politics

APC Considers N’West Region For Campaign DG

Published

3 years ago

July 24, 2022

APC Considers N’West Region For Campaign DG

The All Progressives Congress and its presidential candidate, Senator Bola Tinubu, have begun deliberating on who to appoint as director general of the party’s presidential campaign council, Sunday PUNCH has learnt.

By the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission, campaigns ahead of the 2023 general elections will begin in September.

INEC’s timetable for the 2023 general elections, dated February 26, 2022, was signed by the commission’s secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony.

In the timetable, the presidential and the National Assembly electioneering campaigns are to commence on September 28 in compliance with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.

The law states that public campaigns by political parties shall commence 150 days before the polling day and end 24 hours to election day.

By INEC’s timetable, presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on February 25, 2023.

It was gathered that the APC and its strategists are looking towards the North-West to pick the director general of the party’s presidential campaign council.

It was gathered that the move to pick the campaign leader from the North-West is aimed at pacifying party members from the zone, who are said to be aggrieved because they lost out in the bid to have APC’s vice presidential candidate picked from the zone.

The North-West zone, where the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), hails from, has seven states, making it the largest of the country’s six geo-political zones.

The zone comprises Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara states.

The zone was said to be hoping to produce Tinubu’s running mate before the former governor of Lagos State announced a former governor of Borno State, Kashim Shettima, from the North-East zone, as his choice.

In a bid to pacify the zone, it was reliably gathered that the APC and Tinubu have decided that the party’s presidential campaign director general will be picked from the North-West.

A very top source in the camp of the presidential candidate, who spoke with one of our correspondents in confidence because he was not authorised to speak on it officially, said a decision had been taken to zone the position to the North-West.

The source said, “A decision has been taken to zone it to the North-West. The zone will produce the campaign director general. I can also tell you that the Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, is being favoured for the role.

“Though the name of a former National Chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, also came up as another good candidate for the role, I think the North-West will take it from him.

“You know the former governor of Edo State was the party’s chairman in 2019 and he worked with Asiwaju during the presidential campaign. That notwithstanding, I think Oshiomhole will also play a prominent role in the campaign.

“Don’t also forget that the Babachir Lawal panel that recommended the kind of persons to pick as running mate also recommended that the campaign DG should come from the North and the chosen person must not be running for any election.”

Also, the media director of Tinubu’s campaign group, Bayo Onanuga, told Sunday PUNCH that all stakeholders within the ruling party, including the President; and the Progressives Governors’ Forum, had begun deliberating on the subject.

According to Onanuga, who spoke during an interview with Sunday PUNCH on Saturday, the APC plans to inaugurate two presidential campaign councils – one by the APC and one by Tinubu.

“There will be two campaign teams. The party is setting up one and the candidate is setting up another but they are going to work together. They are still talking about what should be,” Onanuga said.

He, however, declined comments on the geopolitical zone where the directors general of the two teams would likely emerge from or the criteria that will be used in their selection.

According to him, discussions are still ongoing. When asked the roles the governors will play in the composition of the campaign council, he said, “Everybody, all the stakeholders, are discussing it.”

Asked whether the President has made any input, he said, “It is being discussed, the candidate and the party and everyone are discussing this.”

On why Tinubu was not in the Villa on Friday during the stakeholders’ meeting with the President, he said, “There is nothing to it. If he was not there, he was not there; it is not a big deal.”

North-West APC worries

Meanwhile, the APC in the North-West has expressed concern about intra-party crises rocking the party in the zone ahead of the 2023 general elections.

The Zonal Publicity Secretary of the party, Musa Mailafiya, while addressing newsmen in Kaduna on Saturday, warned that intra-party squabbles might rob the party of victory in the 2023 general elections if left unresolved to.

However, he said several steps were already being taken to address the crises and ensure unity and peace among North-West APC members.

Mailafiya, who said “each state has peculiar problem to be resolved,” noted that the National Chairman of the APC, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, was on top of the situation to ensure the reconciliation of aggrieved members.

He said Adamu has the zone’s full support to unite all party members.

Speaking with journalists, Mailafiya said, “I called for this engagement with you to discuss efforts being made and steps taken to strengthen our dear party, the All Progressives Congress, in our zone, and of course, the country in general, ahead of 2023 general elections and beyond.

“It is evidently clear that at the zonal level we set the ball rolling by initiating a number of programmes and policies that will help retain our party’s popularity in the zone.

“This is, of course, necessary because there will be those who will be offended in one way or the other. Their grievances might be either legitimate or illegitimate, not withstanding, as a party, you must pacify them, you must reconcile with them, you must carry them along and you must give them back their sense of belonging, which they might have lost in the process.”

Group berates APC

Meanwhile, the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket continues to generate controversies.

On Saturday, the Centre for Justice on Religious and Ethnicity in Nigeria expressed its disapproval of the choice.

In a press statement on Saturday, the organisation’s Director General, Rev. Kallamu Dikwa, said the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket smacked of a plan to propagate the ideologies of the fundamentalist Islamic groups, Boko Haram and ISWAP.

Dikwa said, “While we waited for who would be the running mate of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the 2023 general elections, we observed that all the prominent Muslim politicians, northern Muslim governors, Muslim traditional rulers, with their Islamic scholars, were saying that if a Muslim from the North was not picked as Tinubu’s running mate, they were not going to vote for him.

“At last, Tinubu decided to pick a former governor of Borno State, Senator Kashim Shettima, as his running mate. This is what Boko Haram and ISWAP demanded since, so the agenda of Boko Haram and ISWAP has finally been fulfilled.

“Over 200 Chibok schoolgirls were abducted under the watch of then Governor Kashim Shettima and they have not been found till date. Picking Senator Kashim Shettima as presidential running mate of the APC is a clear indication that Boko Haram and ISWAP’s activities of abducting our children from schools will fully resume. Therefore, Nigerians must be careful with Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima.

“The freed Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorist members from the Kuje correctional centre, may be a well-planned attack by this government to manipulate the forthcoming 2023 general elections for the APC. Therefore, Nigerians must take serious note of this and work against it now.”

Youths plan rally

Meanwhile, the Director General of Tinubu Support Organisation, Mallam Aminu Suleiman, has disclosed a plan by some youths to organise a one-million-man mobilisation campaign for Tinubu.

Speaking in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Saturday, Suleiman said, “We have many support groups that have seen the work we are doing for our leader under TSO, so they want to come and join us. Many of the support groups are even asking us to come and do a-million-man march for our leader, Ahmed Tinubu, and that is why we are here in Kwara to receive them.

“We have confidence that Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu would emerge as President. He was in the system for over 35 years and with the track record that he has, God will make him Nigeria’s President.”

PUNCH

Politics

Zone B Rejects Senator Ahmed Lawan: An Exploratory Analysis of His Political Viability in Yobe State for the 2027 Governorship

Published

6 days ago

January 14, 2026

News Net Global

Senator Ahmed Lawan

Zone B Rejects Senator Ahmed Lawan: An Exploratory Analysis of His Political Viability in Yobe State for the 2027 Governorship

By: Dr. James Bwala

The political landscape of Nigeria is often punctuated by a myriad of personalities and ambitions, one of which is Senator Ahmed Lawan’s aspiration to govern Yobe State in the upcoming 2027 elections. As a seasoned politician and former Senate President, Ahmed Lawan carries with him a wealth of experience; however, the critical question arises: what has he delivered to Potiskum, Damaturu, or Nguru to deserve their votes? This inquiry has stirred considerable debate among Yobe State constituents and reflects the growing sentiment of disenchantment towards established political figures. The reactions from Zone B—homes to these key towns—indicate a complex interplay between political loyalty, public expectations, and the effectiveness of representation. Electorates within this zone say Lawan did nothing for them in all his overextended stay in the red chamber.

Understanding the current dynamics requires a brief historical overview of Yobe State politics. Established in 1991, Yobe has had its share of political turbulence, especially in the wake of the Boko Haram insurgency, which severely affected the northeastern states, including Yobe. The socio-economic conditions have significantly deteriorated, leading to a populace that demands accountability and tangible development from its leaders. In recent years, voters have become more discerning, expecting political candidates to present concrete achievements and plans rather than relying on party affiliations or past titles.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/bego-shares-bunis-achievements-as-journalists-take-a-tour-in-yobe/

Senator Ahmed Lawan emerged as a prominent national figure through his tenure in the National Assembly, where he served multiple terms representing Yobe North. His role as Senate President awarded him visibility and influence over federal legislative processes. However, despite these privileges, the perception of his contributions to local governance in Potiskum, Damaturu, and Nguru remains contentious. Anecdotal evidence suggests that many constituents feel disconnected from the benefits of Lawan’s political stature, raising questions about the merit of his candidacy for the gubernatorial seat.

The question of what Ahmed Lawan has delivered resonates deeply within the electorate of Zone B. Political realities dictate that voters prioritize tangible benefits over abstract achievements. Reports from various community interactions reveal a growing dissatisfaction with traditional political narratives espoused by long-serving politicians like Lawan. Many constituents voice frustration over unmet promises, ineffective representation, and a perceived lack of initiative to tackle Yobe’s pressing issues, such as youth unemployment, healthcare, education, and infrastructure deficits.

At a time when Nigeria grapples with economic challenges exacerbated by insecurity, citizens are increasingly inclined to support candidates who demonstrate a genuine understanding of local issues and can articulate actionable plans for improvement. Social media platforms and town hall meetings amplify these concerns, showcasing a landscape where previous accolades, such as Lawan’s Senate leadership, do little to sway voters lacking firsthand experience of progress.

A pivotal aspect of this analysis involves scrutinizing Lawan’s recorded achievements and the critiques levied against him, particularly concerning his impact on his constituents. During his tenure, Lawan has championed various bills and initiatives at the national level, allegedly aimed at driving development across the nation. However, these efforts are often viewed through a skeptical lens by residents of Potiskum, Damaturu, and Nguru, who expect direct benefits.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/bego-shares-bunis-achievements-as-journalists-take-a-tour-in-yobe/

For instance, although infrastructural projects may be initiated at the federal level, the tangible impact on local communities varies significantly. Reports indicate that significant resources allocated for developments sometimes yield minimal results, leading to skepticism regarding the efficacy of Lawan’s political maneuvers. Consequently, many residents in Zone B question whether their needs have been prioritized or merely sidelined during his continuous climb up the political ladder.

The legacy of previous governors in Yobe State also casts a long shadow over Lawan’s aspirations. Residents compare the current senator with past leaders who made discernible impacts on healthcare, education, and infrastructure, reinforcing the belief that simply holding a high office does not equate to delivering meaningful results. As discussions about his candidacy unfold, it becomes evident that Ahmed Lawan must articulate a compelling vision that addresses these discontents if he hopes to garner support.

As the 2027 election approaches, Lawan faces significant challenges. Primary among them is the need to rebuild trust and establish a genuine connection with the electorate. Engaging directly with communities, understanding their grievances, and developing localized solutions could become pivotal strategies for his campaign. Senator Ahmed Lawan must navigate the evolving political terrain, where emerging candidates leverage grassroots movements, challenging the status quo and resonating more profoundly with younger voters.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/bego-shares-bunis-achievements-as-journalists-take-a-tour-in-yobe/

The influence of social media cannot be overstated in the current electoral climate. Platforms that facilitate civic engagement serve as double-edged swords; while they can amplify candidate messages, they also serve as venues for criticism and accountability. For Lawan, maintaining a proactive presence online and responding to public sentiment will be essential in shaping his narrative as a viable candidate for the governorship.

The factional divisions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) present another layer of complexity. While Ahmed Lawan enjoys national recognition, local party dynamics can either bolster or hinder his chances. Securing robust support from influential stakeholders and grassroots party members will be crucial as factions within Yobe’s political landscape begin to coalesce around potential rivals who might promise fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to long-standing challenges.

Senator Ahmed Lawan’s aspiration to govern Yobe State in 2027 is steeped in a multifaceted context that intertwines local expectations, political legacies, and emerging sociopolitical dynamics. The question, “What has Ahmed Lawan ever delivered to Potiskum, Damaturu, or Nguru?” serves as both a critique and a catalyst for deeper reflection on the responsibilities of elected officials. Reflecting on his past contributions and addressing the tangible needs of his constituents will be paramount for Lawan to carve out a path toward electoral success.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/bego-shares-bunis-achievements-as-journalists-take-a-tour-in-yobe/

As Yobe State prepares for the upcoming gubernatorial race, it becomes increasingly clear that political aspirations must be anchored in accountability, empathy, and a commitment to genuine public service. For Senator Ahmed Lawan to resonate with the voters of Zone B, his campaign will require a transformative approach to engage with the community meaningfully and deliver on the hopes and aspirations of the people he seeks to govern. The journey ahead remains fraught with challenges, but as history has demonstrated, political landscapes can shift dramatically when candidates embrace the voices of those they aim to serve.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Zone B Rejects Senator Ahmed Lawan: An Exploratory Analysis of His Political Viability in Yobe State for the 2027 Governorship

Politics

Zulum picks APC’s digital membership card

Published

1 week ago

January 12, 2026

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Zulum picks APC’s digital membership card

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Sunday picked up his membership card for the ongoing All Progressives Congress’ (APC’s) digital registration exercise.

Governor Zulum was presented with his membership card by the Borno State APC chairman, Hon Bello Ayuba, following his registration by the agent of his ward, Aiari unit 003, after the flag off of the exercise at the party’s State secretariat in Maiduguri.

Alongside the governor, his deputy, Umar Usman Kadafur and the APC Deputy national chairman, Ali Bukar Dalori, have been presented with their membership cards.

Speaking shortly after the registration process, Zulum said: “Strengthening internal democracy is a key to stable democracy, and therefore, I call on all members of our party to register via the e-platform. Let us expand our membership.

“I believe Borno State can register more than 2 million people for the APC. I want all the critical stakeholders to work assiduously to ensure the success of this registration exercise.”

The APC’s digital membership card initiative aims to create a verifiable, centralised database of all party members. This system aims to enhance internal democracy, streamline communication, and facilitate more effective political engagement.

Ayuba commended Governor Zulum’s proactive leadership and mobilisation efforts, thanking him for the relentless support

The occasion was attended by the Chief Whip of the Senate, Barrister Mohammed Tahir Moguno, Senators Mohammed Ali Ndume and Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan (SAN).
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Other high-level dignitaries present included the member representing Marte, Monguno, Ngangai constituency at the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba; the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan; the Secretary to the Borno State Government, Malam Bukar Tijani; the Acting Chief of Staff, Dr Babagana Mallumbe; commissioners and other government officials.

Zulum picks APC’s digital membership card

Politics

VP Kashim Shettima: Leadership, Loyalty, and When Truth Laughs Last

Published

2 weeks ago

January 6, 2026

News Net Global

Vice President Kashim Shettima

VP Kashim Shettima: Leadership, Loyalty, and When Truth Laughs Last

By: Dr. James Bwala

It is undeniably a fact that the political landscape is often fraught with tension, rivalries, and competing narratives everywhere in the world where democracy thrives. In Nigeria, the recent criticisms directed at Vice President Kashim Shettima highlight the complexities of political alliances and the nature of public perception, especially where people don’t look for facts. Critics now calling for Shettima’s replacement ahead of the 2027 elections appear to forget their past demeanor during a critical juncture for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its leadership, particularly when Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambition was still a dream. The narrative that seeks to undermine Shettima’s long-standing association with Tinubu, or “Jagaban,” is not only misguided but also undermines the principles of loyalty and consistency that are crucial in political partnerships.

At the heart of this discussion is the theme of loyalty in politics. Those who now vilify Shettima were, at some point, reluctant participants in the renewal of hope that characterized the Tinubu campaign. When the winds were unfavorable, and doubts about Tinubu’s presidential aspirations loomed large, Shettima emerged as a steadfast ally, rallying support and reinforcing confidence in Tinubu’s eventual success. This unwavering support is a testament to Shettima’s character and political acumen. In times of uncertainty, true leaders demonstrate their commitment not by wavering under pressure but by standing firm in their convictions. Shettima did stand firm.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-2027-fear-grips-political-elites-as-the-move-to-seek-governor-zulums-dark-horse-tops-discussion/

By revisiting this historical context, we can better understand the motivations behind the current wave of criticism. The calls for Shettima’s replacement seem to stem from an oversimplification of a highly intricate political relationship. Shettima’s partnership with Tinubu is built on years of collaboration and shared goals. A strong partnership can withstand the test of time only if both parties remain committed to their collective vision. The attempts to dismantle Shettima’s reputation reflect a misunderstanding of the dynamics at play; it isn’t merely about individual ambitions, but rather about maintaining the integrity of a well-established alliance.

Critics often resort to fabrications and speculative narratives that seek to portray Shettima as disloyal or ineffective. Such discourse serves little purpose other than to fuel division within the party and provide cover for individuals who may feel threatened by Shettima’s longstanding influence. This tendency to rewrite history reflects a broader issue within political discourse—the inclination to prioritize short-term gains over the long-term benefits of solidarity among allies. As political operatives engage in this behavior, they risk alienating those who genuinely believe in the party’s vision.

This criticism can also be interpreted as a reflection of insecurity among certain factions within the APC. By targeting Shettima, they aim to weaken one of the most formidable supporters of Tinubu, thus hoping to elevate their own standings within the party hierarchy. However, such tactics may ultimately backfire as they foster an atmosphere of distrust and resentment. The strength of any political party lies in its ability to unify its members around common goals. Infighting serves only to distract from the real issues facing the nation and creates opportunities for opposition parties to seize upon divisions.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-2027-fear-grips-political-elites-as-the-move-to-seek-governor-zulums-dark-horse-tops-discussion/

Addressing the partnership between Shettima and Tinubu must involve acknowledging their shared vision for Nigeria. Both politicians understand the imperative of economic development, security enhancement, and social cohesion in governing a nation as diverse as Nigeria. Their collaborative efforts have consistently focused on addressing these challenges head-on. Therefore, any attempt to malign Shettima’s contributions is essentially a critique of the larger framework they have both participated in forging. To dismiss his role is to diminish the significant strides taken by the APC under their joint stewardship.

Additionally, history will reveal whether or not the severe criticism leveled against Shettima is based in reality or merely serves the interests of those seeking to disrupt the status quo. Politicians come and go, but foundational reputations are built over years. Shettima has proven his mettle not just as a vice president, but as a reputable political player who commands respect within various circles. One cannot erase decades of hard work and an exemplary track record due to transient political friction or fabricated narratives. Indeed, truth and reputation are enduring forces that often transcend the fleeting nature of political rivalry.

As observers of Nigerian politics evaluate the current milieu, it becomes vital to encourage a more informed dialogue regarding leadership and loyalty. It is unjust to hold individuals accountable for mistakes made by a collective, especially when loyalty requires a degree of faith that can sometimes be tested. Politics should not devolve into an arena for personal vendettas cloaked as ideological disputes. Instead, it should embrace the tenets of constructive criticism and unity.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/borno-2027-fear-grips-political-elites-as-the-move-to-seek-governor-zulums-dark-horse-tops-discussion/

The clamor for Vice President Kashim Shettima’s replacement, fueled by unsubstantiated claims and a disregard for historical allegiances, risks destabilizing the very foundation of the APC. Those who now criticize him must reckon with the fact that their distance during Shettima’s unwavering support for Tinubu illustrates a fundamental lack of accountability in their own political journey. Loyalty, consistency, and mutual respect must guide political behavior if there is to be sustainable progress. History teaches us that while individual fortunes may rise and fall, the legacy of partnerships forged in loyalty and common purpose endures. It is this enduring truth that stands against the tides of fabricated stories, ensuring that ultimately, truth will indeed laugh last.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

VP Kashim Shettima: Leadership, Loyalty, and When Truth Laughs Last