The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is on the brink of a major internal shake-up, with a new National Chairman expected to emerge on Thursday during its crucial National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja. This highly anticipated gathering follows the recent resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who stepped down as the party’s National Chairman amidst internal tensions and political maneuvers. The NEC meeting is poised to be a defining moment for the party, as it seeks to fill a critical leadership void and stabilize its internal structures ahead of future electoral contests.
The vacancy in the party’s top leadership position has triggered intense lobbying and political calculations within the APC. Following Ganduje’s resignation, the Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Bukar Dalori, assumed the role of Acting National Chairman. However, the NEC meeting is expected to address the substantive leadership, with various factions and prominent figures pushing for their preferred candidates. This internal competition underscores the diverse interests at play within the ruling party.
Among the names being floated as potential successors, former Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-Makura and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, are reportedly leading contenders, as the North Central region intensifies its push for the chairmanship to return to its zone. Some party leaders are advocating for Dalori to continue as acting chairman until a formal Elective Convention is held, while others are insisting on the immediate announcement of a new substantive chairman at Thursday’s NEC meeting.
The NEC meeting is not only about selecting a new chairman; it is also expected to address other pressing party matters and review recent political developments. The outcome of this meeting will significantly impact the APC’s cohesion and its strategic positioning for the 2027 general elections. President Bola Tinubu, who has attended previous NEC meetings, is anticipated to be present, and his influence will likely play a crucial role in the ultimate decision regarding the party’s new helmsman.
The selection of a new National Chairman is critical for the APC to project stability and unity, especially as opposition parties are exploring avenues for coalition. A strong, undisputed leader is essential for guiding the party through upcoming off-cycle elections and consolidating its power base. The events of Thursday’s NEC meeting will therefore be closely watched by political observers, as they will provide a clear indication of the direction the ruling party intends to take in the coming years.
