2027: Nobody can stop Tinubu’s reelection, APC vows

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has confidently asserted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is poised to secure re-election in the 2027 presidential election, regardless of who assumes the role of chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In an illuminating interview with The Sun, Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the APC, emphasized the party’s disinterest in the identity of the new INEC chairman. His comments reflect a strong belief within the party about its electoral fortunes, indicating a level of assurance in their organizational strategies.

The current INEC chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, is approaching the end of his tenure, with reports suggesting that discussions and consultations are actively taking place to identify a suitable successor. This transition has raised questions about how the new leadership at INEC might impact the upcoming elections.

In response to rising concerns that the APC may seek to exert influence over the selection process for the new electoral referee, Basiru firmly refuted such allegations. He articulated his viewpoint with a metaphor, stating, “How can you be asking a player to recommend a referee? We are players and don’t care about which referee is brought to officiate the match.”

Basiru further asserted that the responsibility of recommending a new INEC chairman should lie with civil society organizations and the National Assembly, thereby advocating for an independent process that does not involve direct political interference.

He underscored the APC’s confidence in their voter mobilization capabilities and reiterated that the party’s strength is rooted in its ability to galvanize public support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid. Basiru declared, “In fact, by the time we mobilise, even if the new INEC chairman is the father of another party’s presidential candidate, Asiwaju will still win the election.”

This statement encapsulates the party’s unwavering belief in their electoral strategy and the loyalty of their voter base, suggesting they are prepared to face any challenge in the 2027 elections.