By Samson Olurotimi Oderinde
The All Progressives Congress, APC, as the ruling party in Nigeria, is strategically positioned for electoral victory in 2027. This optimism is anchored on the performance-driven governance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose administration has demonstrated fiscal ingenuity and commitment to national development.
Under his leadership, the federal government has generated and judiciously distributed resources across the three tiers and arms of government. The impact is visible: new roads, hospitals, clinics, schools, and other critical infrastructure are being constructed or upgraded across the length and breadth of the country — in numbers that surpass previous administrations.
Beyond infrastructure, key sectors such as agriculture, education, health, social welfare, information technology and security are receiving focused attention aimed at improving the quality of life of citizens. Consequently, the APC enjoys an enhanced public image both at home and within the international community.
This favourable standing is a political asset that must be jealously guarded. It must not be undermined by avoidable internal rancour. The recently concluded party primary elections, while largely successful, generated pockets of discontent and aggravated existing tensions at various levels across the country. Although reconciliation efforts have begun, the process is not yet complete. More deliberate and sustained engagement is required to ensure lasting peace and unity within the party.
At both the national and state levels, the APC is fielding formidable candidates capable of delivering victory with minimal effort, all things being equal. The candidates presented are widely regarded as strong contenders with a high probability of winning the 2027 general elections, provided there is cohesion and collective effort.
However, there are some prominent political figures around the country who were not successful in the last party primary elections. who command significant followership and political influence, in their constituencies, states and at the national level. Their experience, political sagacity, and grassroots reach make them invaluable assets to the party.
It is noteworthy that many of these leaders have conducted themselves with maturity, so far and have expressed their desire to cooperate with the party towards a successful election and beyond and behond it. Nonetheless, for strategic reasons, they must be treated with honour, respect, and tact. Their constituencies represent a substantial voting bloc that the party cannot afford to take for granted.
Therefore, it is imperative that the national leadership of the APC, the presidency and other key stakeholders take deliberate steps in this regard. They should initiate early, sincere, and inclusive dialogue with all the leaders (aspirants).
It is proposed that they be meaningfully engaged in key national assignments, including the party’s 2027 campaign council and other strategic administrative roles before and after the elections. Such inclusive gestures will reinforce party unity, consolidate followership, and prevent any form of political backlash.
The APC and the government must guard against a situation where aggrieved but influential members feel compelled to “take their pound of flesh” in retaliation for perceived marginalization.
As the saying goes, “a stitch in time saves nine.” Proactive reconciliation today will secure overwhelming victory tomorrow.
Samson O. Oderinde, JP is former Executive Chairman, Yewa North Local Government and former Senior Special Adviser to Deputy Governor of Ogun State. He writes in from Igbogila-Yewa
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