Politics
Borno 2027: Fear grips political elites as the move to seek Governor Zulum’s dark horse tops discussion.
Borno 2027: Fear grips political elites as the move to seek Governor Zulum’s dark horse tops discussion.
By: Dr. James Bwala
“Who is this ‘DARK HORSE’?” Several callers have asked me this question since my last publication on Borno politics. Some of these questions are coming from frontline foot soldiers of powerful individuals, who pride themselves as the gods of Borno politics; others are curious political analysts and onlookers, who wanted to know for a side corner gist on political happenings since that declaration by the governor. I have told some of them to ask the governor who gave the hint about his bold political stance and why he revealed it. However, what I know is that the political landscape in Borno State is becoming increasingly charged, especially in response to Governor Babagana Zulum’s bold proclamations regarding his future political ambitions. Following his declaration of stepping on “big toes,” a metaphor that signifies challenging entrenched interests within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the reactions from political elites have ranged from heading to open hostility to strategic maneuvering.
To fully grasp the extent of the political maneuverings taking place, we must first acknowledge the significance of Governor Zulum’s position. His tenure has been marked by significant gains in infrastructure development, security, and social welfare programs—an impressive record, particularly in a state that has faced challenges from insurgency and socio-economic instability. However, with success often comes resistance; the entrenched political leaders who have long benefited from the status quo are now feeling threatened by Zulum’s progressive vision for the future.
READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/zulums-bold-gambit-the-2027-dark-horse-and-big-toes-in-borno/
The phrase “stepping on big toes” resonates strongly within the context of Borno’s political culture. It suggests an intention to disrupt a well-established order, one that is often characterized by patronage networks and political favors that can stifle genuine progress. Such a disruption can evoke panic among the political elites who depend on these structures for maintaining their influence. The response to Zulum’s statements may lead to both physical and spiritual dimensions of political strategy, indicating an urgent and desperate effort to regain control and resist change.
Feedback from the public sphere, particularly through platforms such as News Net Global, Borno social media platforms, and other political platforms, reveals widespread discontent among the political elite. The discussions surrounding Zulum’s declaration demonstrate a palpable fear of his potential to consolidate power if he continues on a path of reform. Strategic questioning about his motives, coupled with appeals to traditional power structures, signals a brewing political war. In a state where loyalty and allegiance can dictate political survival, these elites are scrambling to secure their positions as they perceive Zulum’s moves as existential threats.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/zulums-bold-gambit-the-2027-dark-horse-and-big-toes-in-borno/
In Political Communication, we learned that a key aspect of any political battle involves the narratives constructed around leadership. Borno State Governor Zulum’s ability to frame himself as a reformist willing to confront established interests gives him considerable leverage in rallying public support. Moreover, the contrast between his governance style—marked by transparency, accountability, and accessibility—and the more opaque practices of his adversaries could solidify his standing in the eyes of the electorate. Yet, this very visibility might also serve as a target on his back, inviting opposition from those who feel their power diminishing as the situation is suggesting following his bold gambit.
In light of these political tensions, it is essential for Borno’s political elites to recognize that responding reactively to Zulum’s ambitions may ultimately prove detrimental to the political fabric of the state. Instead of clashing with Zulum in a bid to suppress his influence, they should consider the possibility of engaging with him in a dialogue aimed at collaborative governance. Embracing reform does not necessitate the loss of their political careers; rather, it could signify a transformative shift toward a more robust democratic framework that benefits all stakeholders.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/zulums-bold-gambit-the-2027-dark-horse-and-big-toes-in-borno/
For such engagement to occur, a roadmap for reform must be articulated—one that aligns the interests of the political elite with the broader goals of state development. This would require introspection within the APC and a willingness among its members to recognize that the grievances of the populace can no longer be ignored. By prioritizing community engagement, addressing corruption, and fostering economic opportunities, political elites can reposition themselves within a changing landscape while still anchoring themselves in the party system.
Introducing policy initiatives that directly address the concerns of the electorate can also help alleviate some of the pressures facing these elites. For example, focusing on youth empowerment programs, education, and skill acquisition can significantly alter public perception. Political elites must advocate for policies that resonate with the needs of ordinary citizens, allowing them to remain relevant even in the face of Zulum’s reformist agenda.
The pervasive use of media—be it traditional or social—should not be underestimated in shaping the political discourse. The conversations sparked by digital platforms can be harnessed to present a unified front among political elites, advocating for a shared vision for Borno that emphasizes stability and growth. This requires strategic communication and coalition-building efforts among various factions within the party, reducing the likelihood of factionalism that can arise from individualistic agendas.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/zulums-bold-gambit-the-2027-dark-horse-and-big-toes-in-borno/
However, this collaborative approach must recognize that power dynamics within the APC and the broader political arena are shifting. The emergence of new leaders who align themselves with Zulum’s vision cannot be overlooked. Rather than viewing these new entrants as competitors, current elites should aim to mentor and incorporate them into a new framework of governance that reflects the aspirations of a younger, more dynamic voter base.
Simultaneously, the power of grassroots movements must not be underestimated as well. The mobilization of civil society organizations and the active participation of citizens in the political process are vital avenues through which public sentiments can be channeled. Political elites must engage with these movements rather than dismiss them, understanding that they represent an important demographic that will influence electoral outcomes. By fostering relationships with community leaders and activists, elites can ensure that their voices are heard, bolstering their own legitimacy in a landscape where political authority is increasingly scrutinized.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the stakes are high for all involved. The landscape is primed for a significant shift, one that could either reinforce the status quo or usher in a new era of governance. If Borno’s political elites choose to unite around a common vision that balances reform with the realities of an evolving political climate, they may well find a path to coexistence with Governor Zulum. Such unity can yield dividends that exceed individual aspirations, resulting in a strengthened political framework capable of addressing the myriad challenges facing the state.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/zulums-bold-gambit-the-2027-dark-horse-and-big-toes-in-borno/
As the political drama unfolds in Borno amidst Governor Zulum’s ambitious plans, it becomes clear that the time for decisive action is now. Political elites in the APC must move beyond their immediate fears and engage in a constructive dialogue that encourages reform while preserving their influence. By embracing a spirit of collaboration, they have the potential not only to safeguard their political futures but also to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development. The stakes could not be higher, and the need for enlightened leadership has never been more pressing. The choices made in the coming months will determine not only the outcome of the next election but also the trajectory of governance in Borno State for years to come.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Borno 2027: Fear grips political elites as the move to seek Governor Zulum’s dark horse tops discussion.
Mass defection hits Gombe State NNPP, SDP, LP as over 1, 000 leaders join APC
Ahead of the 2027 general election, the camp of the ruling APC in Gombe State received a boost as over 1, 000 opposition political leaders and members from Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area of the state, on Monday defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The opposition leaders and members are from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Labour Party (LP).
They were received by Mr Inuwa Garba, member representing Yamaltu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives in company of Mr Adamu Lambam, APC chairman, Yamaltu Deba LG.
Speaking during the ceremony in Lubo community in Yamaltu Deba LG, Malam Tasiu Isa, the Chairman of Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the council said joining APC was to strengthen the good governance being delivered by the party.
Isa said that Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State and President Bola Tinubu have done well for the people through the execution of live-changing projects.
“We, the executives of the SDP from this LG and all the ward executives are joining the APC today and we are more than 500 officials.
“If we join our supporters and members, then we will be talking of thousands of SDP members; we are convinced that APC is the party to be because the party has good governance as evidence,” he said.
Isa commended Rep member Garba for his people-centric approach to representation, saying that Garba’s leadership style was complementing that of Gov. Yahaya.
For Mohammed Hinna, Labour Party chairman, Yamaltu Deba LG, joining APC remained the best option for any patriotic Nigeria who wants to see a better future for the country.
Hinna said with the efforts of President Tinubu and Gov. Yahaya, it would be difficult to remain in opposition, “if you truly a political leader that has the love of the people at heart.”
Mr Adamu Lambam, the APC chairman for Yamaltu Deba said more opposition leaders and members have been joining the APC at the council because of the good governance being delivered by Yahaya in their LG.
Lambam said that the party would continue to welcome anyone who wants to join the APC, adding that “APC is the people’s party because of the developmental strides of Tinubu, Inuwa and Garba.”
Reps member Garba said with the defection, the structure of opposition parties in the council has been weakened and “this is good for APC ahead of 2027.”
Garba said that the performance of Tinubu and Yahaya would make campaigning for APC ahead of 2027 election easier for them when the ban on campaign is lifted in August.
He appealed to members of the APC to remain united while mobilising more members at the grassroots by informing them of the many good things that Mr President and Yahaya have done.
Mass defection hits Gombe State NNPP, SDP, LP as over 1, 000 leaders join APC
Politics
Bayelsa: APC Chieftain Condemns Marginalized Congresses, Alleges Diri’s Plan To Use Isowo As State Party Chairman
Bayelsa: APC Chieftain Condemns Marginalized Congresses, Alleges Diri’s Plan To Use Isowo As State Party Chairman
Faults Akpe’s Nomination, Says Governance Now A Family Enterprise
A chieftain and founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Barr. David Perebo has expressed deep dissatisfaction over Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri segregational, sidelining mode of conduct of the party ward and local government congresses.
Condemning in strong terms of the segregational mode of conduct of the APC ward and local government congresses across the state, the chieftain described the congresses as witch-hunt of a selected group of stakeholders, leaders in the party.
The APC member condemned the governor deliberate segregation of key stakeholders in various wards and local government areas are geared towards generating division.
Pursuant to the marginalized mode of conduct of the congresses, ward and local government executives of APC in Sagbama addressing the press, expressed dissatisfaction over non-inclusion of critical stakeholders who stood firmly as an opposition in building the party in Bayelsa state.
The party executives said Senator Diri inability to conduct all inclusive congresses in various wards, local governments across the state, has proven beyond shadow of doubt of the governor incapability to manage affairs of the party in Bayelsa state.
Governor Diri who couldn’t manage insignificant affairs of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP leading to Mr George Turnah factional leadership in Bayelsa, has transferred the same attitude from the PDP to the APC barely four months of defection.
The statesmen said the governor has deceptively taken total control of the APC leadership structure in various wards and local government areas across the state, by installing his followers who defected to the APC from the PDP, while excluding old APC members who built the party.
Diri who preach all-inclusiveness in leadership, has deceptively taken over the leadership structures of Brass, Nembe, Yenagoa, Sagbama, Kolokuma-Opokuma, while allowing Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku and David Lyon to nominate the Chairmen of Ekeremor, Ogbia and Southern-Ijaw as compensation.
Furthermore, the governor whose intentions failed woefully to use his relative, Mr Gesiye Isowo as at then Bayelsa PDP Secretary, as Bayelsa APC Caretaker Chairman before any official defection to the APC, has perfected preparations to use him as Chairman of APC in Bayelsa State.
Senator Douye Diri has perfected preparations to produce the Bayelsa APC Chairman, Secretary, including other relevant positions to take total control of the party structure in the state, as deliberate steps towards producing a governorship candidate in the next gubernatorial election.
Unknown to Lokpobiri, Ogbuku who are rumoured to have governorship ambitions in 2027, Governor Douye Diri will never support any of them as successor, rather he is nurturing a relative from Nembe extraction whose father is from Sampou to succeed him as Bayelsa Governor.
In the same vein, the APC chieftain has condemned the decision of the Bayelsa Governor, Senator Douye Diri over nomination of his maternal relative from Ayamasa town, Pastor Peter Pereotubo Akpe as Deputy Governor with motives to revolve the government as a family enterprise.
The chieftain who that stands for justice, fairness, and transparency in governance, has expressed intense dissatisfaction over Governor Douye Diri’s nomination of his relative as deputy governor against Bayelsans.
The sudden passing of the Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo whose cause of sudden death still uncertain, created room for timely replacement of the office of the deputy governor according to Section 191 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He said the governor has privatized governance of Bayelsa as a family enterprise with Akpe nomination as deputy when expected to choose from other competent Bayelsans.
Senator Diri has virtually privatized governance of Bayelsa by appointing only relatives in sensitive positions: Chief of Staff now Deputy Governor, Deputy Chief of Staff, Director of Domestic, Director of Transport, and other government house appointees.
The aggrieved party stakeholder said successive administrations since 1999 has credibly and transparently distributed political appointments across the three senatorial district, but the reverse has been the record in Senator Douye Diri administration.
The governor take decisions without putting into consideration of those who consciously built his political reputation. He defected to the APC without considering the feelings of leaders working closely with him.
Bayelsans has witnessed that the governor has no conscience and empathy, enveloped with greed and ingratitude against those who helped in building his political career and reputation; such as former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Dr. Timi Alaibe, Senator Seriake Dickson.
Senator Diri political trajectory has been driven by pettiness, rumours, propaganda, capitalizing on illiteracy, poverty and stomach infrastructure syndrome of some Bayelsans, while privatizing and managing resources of the state as a family enterprise.
In self-delusional, deceptive pretense of building peace, unity, he brought in opposition members to replace those who fought (some lost their lives) for his emergence, instead of acknowledging, and compensating them for their support and sacrifices.
Douye was very selfish to abandon Jonathan, Alaibe in PDP, especially Dickson who believed and trusted him as successor. Yet, he embraced the people who fought against those who worked for him in the election.
The way and manner the governor had shown ingratitude to Jonathan, Dickson, Alaibe, and others, same thing he will do to Lokpobiri, Ogbuku, Lyon, and other leaders in the APC.
Douye doesn’t understand that those who are praising him, are doing so for political patronage (monetary terms), and desert him after office.
Signed:
Barr. David Perebo
APC Chieftain Writes From Yenagoa
Bayelsa: APC Chieftain Condemns Marginalized Congresses, Alleges Diri’s Plan To Use Isowo As State Party Chairman
National Progressive Hub (NPH) Urges Support for President Tinubu’s Second Tenure
By Comrade Philip Ikodor
The National Progressive Hub (NPH), a leading support group for the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on all Nigerians to rally behind President Ahmed Bola Tinubu GCFR for a successful second term in office come 2027.
In a statement, National Coordinator/Convener, Honorable Bukie Okangbe, praised the APC administration for its efforts towards nation-building and economic stability. Okangbe highlighted the NPH’s previous support for President Tinubu, including a National Security and Endorsement event in 2022 that contributed to the party’s successful general election outcome.
The NPH is gearing up for a Grand Endorsement event for President Tinubu’s second term, scheduled to hold on February 26th at the Musa Yaradua Center, CBD, Abuja. The event will also feature the inauguration of 36 state coordinators, including the FCT, and address critical national issues.
“We invite everyone to join us at this significant event,” Okangbe said. “Your presence will be a testament to our collective commitment to Nigeria’s progress and the APC’s vision for a better future.”
The event promises to be a landmark occasion, showcasing the NPH’s dedication to the APC and President Tinubu’s leadership.
National Progressive Hub (NPH) Urges Support for President Tinubu’s Second Tenure
Zulum Disburses ₦2bn Starter Packs to 2,970 Trained Borno Youths in Massive Empowerment Drive
Send Your Kids To Acquire Technical Education Now……Zulum
FRSC moves to enforce discipline, professionalism
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News11 months agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions4 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
ACADEMICS2 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions2 years agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
