2027: Defecting govs tighten grip as APC gets new state chairmen
Governor Alliances Shift in APC Amid Legislative Discontent
By John Alechenu, Abuja
Governors affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) are maneuvering to secure loyalty from senators and members of the House of Representatives, citing breaches related to recent amendments to the Electoral Act among other grievances.
Reports from Abuja indicate a growing rift between APC governors and their state representatives in the National Assembly, particularly following President Bola Tinubu’s call for the reelection of the party’s federal lawmakers. Tinubu expressed this wish during a recent interfaith breaking of fast with House members, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, at the State House.
While commending Abbas for rallying support among his colleagues, Tinubu noted the importance of returning the majority of federal lawmakers to the National Assembly, with exceptions for those under existing rotational and zoning agreements. “I appreciate the impressive turnout, which underscores our unity,” Tinubu said.
Abbas urged the President’s support for a majority return, warning that a significant turnover among National Assembly members could disrupt legislative continuity, as new legislators require extensive orientation.
The initiative has prompted concern among governors, particularly those aligned with the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF). A party insider described the President’s remarks as unexpected, leading to a planned meeting between the governors and Tinubu prior to his upcoming trip to the United Kingdom.
Sources suggest that discussions will focus on potential concessions from the President, although specific details remain under consideration.
Tensions are reportedly heightened in Ondo State, where Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa seeks to replace all three senators and a majority of the state’s House representatives. The backdrop of these maneuvers includes Aiyedatiwa’s dissatisfaction with lawmakers who declined his proposals for a constitutional amendment that would enable a fresh gubernatorial term.
Section 182(3) of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution currently prohibits individuals who assume the governorship mid-term from being elected for more than a single full term. Lawmakers who met with Aiyedatiwa indicated their resistance to supporting the amendment, viewing it as unlikely to succeed.
In light of the ongoing negotiations, the dynamics within the APC indicate a strategic effort by state governors to reshape the party’s representation in the National Assembly ahead of future elections.
