5 experienced campaigners missing from Tinubu’s 2027 APC campaign council
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced its Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 general election, yet the formation has sparked debates due to the absence of notable political figures and seasoned campaign strategists.
The party unveiled its council on Saturday, with Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy and Coordinating Director of Media and Strategic Communication, making the announcement.
President Bola Tinubu will head the council, supported by Vice President Kashim Shettima and APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, who will serve as vice chairmen. Former Zamfara State Governor Abdul’aziz Yari was appointed Director-General, while Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma will act as secretary. Ajibola Bashiru, APC National Secretary, is designated as deputy secretary, with Hadiza Bala-Usman serving as assistant secretary.
However, the council’s composition has raised concerns about the representation of key party stakeholders. Reports indicate that President Tinubu has instructed a review of the list to better reflect hierarchy, geographical distribution, and the party’s political structure.
Several prominent figures well-versed in campaign operations have notably been excluded from the initial list. Among them are:
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Festus Keyamo: The current Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development played a vital role in past APC presidential campaigns. He was Director of Strategic Communications during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election bid in 2019 and served as Chief Spokesperson for the Tinubu-Shettima campaign in 2023.
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Simon Lalong: The former Governor of Plateau State and Director-General of the Tinubu-Shettima campaign during the 2023 elections is also missing, despite his significant experience in managing presidential campaigns.
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Nuhu Ribadu: The National Security Adviser was previously the Director of Field Operations for Buhari’s campaign in 2019. His current responsibilities focus on national security, but his background in campaign strategy raises questions about his absence.
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Yahaya Bello: The former Kogi State governor was instrumental in mobilizing support for Buhari’s 2019 re-election. His extensive political network could have added value to the campaign.
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Femi Fani-Kayode: The former Minister of Aviation and a prominent APC figure was vocal in support of Tinubu during the 2023 campaign. He served as Director of Special Media Operations and New Media.
With the impending review of the campaign council, it remains uncertain whether these experienced campaigners will be included in an amended or expanded structure.
