Tensions ran high during a key All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting in the North-East on Sunday after a controversial endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu triggered outrage among party loyalists.
Held in Gombe State, the high-level gathering brought together prominent APC figures, including governors, ministers, legislators, and top party officials, with APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje leading the delegation.
The uproar began when Mustapha Salihu, APC’s National Vice Chairman (North-East), publicly endorsed President Tinubu for a second term—but conspicuously failed to mention Vice-President Kashim Shettima, a native of the region.
The omission sparked immediate backlash from delegates. Aggrieved party members erupted in protest, shouting insults and threatening physical confrontation. Security personnel swiftly intervened and escorted Salihu out of the venue to prevent violence.
In an attempt to calm the unrest, Deputy National Chairman (North) Alhaji Bukar Dalori addressed the gathering with a more inclusive message, issuing a joint endorsement of both President Tinubu and Vice-President Shettima for the 2027 election. However, tensions remained high, and Dalori was also escorted out under tight security.
An eyewitness, Danburam Danladi, said the incident highlighted the political sensitivity around regional loyalty and internal party dynamics as preparations for the 2027 general elections gain momentum.
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, later sought to redirect the meeting’s focus. He praised the party’s leadership for initiating the zonal consultation platform, calling it an opportunity to assess the APC’s progress and prepare for future challenges.
Buni said the meeting underscored the APC’s commitment to good governance, unity, and effective service delivery across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
Highlighting the North-East’s rich political heritage, Buni said, “From the First Republic to date, this region has remained a significant political bloc. We are the home of great leaders like Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Sir Kashim Ibrahim, and Alhaji Ibrahim Waziri.”
He noted that the region is currently well-represented at the national level, boasting Vice President Kashim Shettima, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, three sitting governors, and several federal and state lawmakers.
Buni urged stakeholders to protect and build upon this legacy, warning against actions that could divide the party or undermine its unity.
“We must continue to support the APC and the leadership of President Tinubu, as well as our state governments, to consolidate our strength and retain our position as Nigeria’s leading political force,” he stated.
He also used the occasion to mark a decade of APC leadership in Nigeria, calling it a product of strategic planning and inclusive governance. He encouraged party members to strengthen unity, resolve internal disputes, and improve the party’s reward system moving forward.
