Tinubu flags-off campaign, blasts opposition, backs APC governors against Rainbow Coalition
Tinubu Launches APC Presidential Campaign in Kaduna, Criticizes Opponents
KADUNA, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu officially launched the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign on Saturday, directly accusing his political opponents of contributing to the widespread hunger and poverty in Nigeria. He urged his supporters to rally for his re-election, scheduled for January 16, 2027.
At the campaign kickoff, Tinubu described the opposition as ineffective and characterized their criticisms as expressions of anger. He stated, “I hear my opponents talking about hunger and poverty. Who created it? They did. They created the hunger. They created the poverty we are trying to eradicate.”
Tinubu defended his administration’s achievements, highlighting regular salary payments and developmental efforts by APC governors. He expressed pride in their work, asserting, “We are developing.”
The President indicated that a second term would focus on “prosperity, continuity, progress, and development.” He called on the crowd, particularly the youth, to pledge their support, saying, “You will not regret going to vote.”
He emphasized the importance of having a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) and encouraged attendees to show their cards, reinforcing their readiness to participate in the upcoming election.
In his remarks, Tinubu dismissed criticisms from the opposition, attributing them to their failures and lack of substantial proposals for the nation. “Our opponents are angry because they are failures. They have nothing to offer you but heckling,” he stated.
The President encouraged voter turnout on election day, aligning himself and his candidates with the APC brand. “Come January 2027, January 16, you must go out massively to elect me again. APC all the way,” he urged the supporters.
Regarding the opposition’s intent to reintroduce fuel subsidies, Tinubu remarked that the removal of such subsidies is a step toward a corruption-free future, stating, “Fuel subsidy is in our past. No more corruption. No more lies.”
He praised the developmental efforts of APC governors and reiterated his promise of a “better tomorrow.” The rally in Kaduna marked the formal commencement of the APC’s campaign for the upcoming presidential election.
Tinubu also reflected on Kaduna’s historical significance, honoring past political leaders and calling for unity as Nigerians prepare for the election. He assured voters they would not regret their support for his re-election, framing it as a choice for growth, recovery, and opportunity.
The rally featured Vice President Kashim Shettima, who emphasized the administration’s commitment to the nation’s survival and the unity it has fostered. He highlighted the perceived accomplishments in educational reform in Kaduna State as further evidence of the APC’s promise-keeping.
Shettima concluded by urging voters to renew the APC mandate, reinforcing their commitment to the state’s and nation’s advancement.
