Solomon Chidera

The APC Campaign Council: Nigerians Deserve a New Direction I have taken note of the recently constituted APC Presidential Campaign Council, whose composition offers Nigerians a clear picture of the choice before us in the 2027 general election. The council brings together many of the same political actors who have supported, defended or participated in the present administration. Their coming together raises a fundamental question: what exactly are they asking Nigerians to vote for in 2027, a new beginning, or the continuation of the same system that has brought severe hardship to our people? The truth is, I see the 2027 election as a struggle between the oppressed Nigerian masses and those who have benefited from, defended and sustained the system responsible for their hardship. It is concerning to all well-meaning Nigerians whose across the country, their families are struggling with the rising cost of food and basic necessities. Young Nigerians face unemployment and diminishing opportunities. Farmers and businesses are struggling to survive, while millions continue to live with insecurity. Our education, healthcare and other essential public services remain under enormous pressure.   This ruling campaign structure presents another scenario between the oppressors and the oppressed. We must use it come 2027 election to reject continued oppression and demand accountable, people-centred governance. If Osun people can do it, so can all other parts of the country. I particularly appeal to my brother, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari, who has accepted to serve as Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, to reflect deeply and reconsider accepting this responsibility. As a former governor of Zamfara State and a prominent leader from the North-West, I believe Senator Yari has a clear understanding of the devastating consequences of insecurity, poverty, unemployment, displacement and the destruction of livelihoods in the region and the country at large. I therefore will be surprised if in his good conscience, will lead a campaign whose principal objective is to secure the continuation of a government under which many of the people he once governed, and other innocent Nigerians remain trapped in these challenges? There is also a serious institutional question concerning the inclusion of the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji, and the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Dr Tanimu Yakubu Kurfi, in the campaign’s fundraising and finance structures. The leadership of critical public institutions demands neutrality, integrity and public confidence. It is therefore legitimate to ask whether the responsibilities of senior officials entrusted with managing public revenue and national finances can appropriately coexist with senior partisan campaign roles. The government and the APC should explain how such arrangements are consistent with institutional neutrality and public trust. Ultimately, no campaign council is more powerful than the Nigerian people. - RMK