Senate President Godswill Akpabio has boldly proclaimed President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 as a "done deal," rallying ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders to consolidate power amid opposition challenges.
The declaration came during a high-profile Iftar/Lenten dinner in Abuja, signaling the party’s early mobilization for the next polls .
Key Highlights from the Event
1. Unshaken Confidence
Akpabio, addressing APC governors, lawmakers, and ministers, led chants of "Amen!" as he asserted: *"Mr. President’s second term is assured. Victory shall be ours in 2027!"* He credited Tinubu’s "bold economic reforms" for stabilizing inflation and exchange rates, though critics dispute these claims .
2. Expansion Agenda
The Senate President boasted of APC’s growing influence, citing the recent defection of Edo Senator Monday Okpebholo from the PDP as evidence of the party’s "inevitable sweep" in 2027. He urged members to "market the government like a product" .
3. Opposition Dismissed
Finance Minister Wale Edun dismissed opposition critiques, highlighting "declining food prices" and "stable energy costs" as proof of Tinubu’s progress. Governor Hope Uzodinma likened governance to "sweet and sour soup," acknowledging challenges but insisting on collective ownership of successes .
Behind the Scenes: Power Plays
- Rivers State Gambit: Sources reveal Akpabio’s alleged role in Tinubu’s controversial emergency rule in Rivers, aiming to weaken PDP’s hold ahead of 2027.
- Akwa Ibom Turmoil: APC factions accuse Akpabio of sabotaging the party in his home state to secure PDP support for his Senate re-election, a claim his aides deny as "beer parlour rumours" .
The event underscores APC’s strategy to frame Tinubu’s re-election as inevitable, despite internal dissent and economic headwinds. With opposition parties regrouping, the stage is set for a fierce battle over Nigeria’s political future.
The dinner united APC heavyweights, including NSA Nuhu Ribadu and 36 state chairmen .
Akpabio’s rhetoric aligns with Tinubu’s push to control strategic states like Rivers and Akwa Ibom .