2027: Oyo APC endorses Tinubu for second term

In a decisive move signaling confidence in Nigeria’s current administration, the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has publicly declared its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in the 2027 general elections. The endorsement, announced during a stakeholders’ meeting at the party’s state secretariat, underscores the APC’s belief that Tinubu’s policies and leadership are critical to addressing the nation’s challenges and unlocking its potential.

A Mandate Rooted in Progress

Alhaji Olaide Abass, the APC’s acting chairman in Oyo, led the call for Tinubu’s second term, emphasizing the president’s "courage, determination, and patriotism" in governance. He noted that despite being in office for less than two years, Tinubu’s administration had already achieved significant milestones under the Renewed Hope Agenda—a blueprint aimed at economic revitalization, security reform, and social inclusion.

"Those familiar with President Tinubu’s background will not be surprised by his bold approach to leadership," Abass said. “However, it is vital that we publicly acknowledge his achievements to encourage him and the Nigerian people. He understands our challenges deeply and possesses the vision to overcome them. Nigerians must grant him the time needed to fully reimagine our nation’s trajectory.”

The meeting included APC State Executive Committee members and chairpersons from Oyo’s 33 local government areas. Collectively, they stressed that Tinubu’s re-election was not just a political choice but a moral imperative to sustain progress on key fronts, including infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and gender equality.

The Opposition’s Shift: A Validation of Vision

Party officials highlighted a surge in defections from opposition parties to the APC as evidence of Tinubu’s growing appeal. They argued that Nigerians across ideological lines recognize the Renewed Hope Agenda as the most viable pathway to national rebirth. "The APC is no longer seen as just a political vehicle—it is the engine of holistic development," said Alh. Tajudeen Olanite, the APC State Secretary.

Olawale Sadare, the party’s Publicity Secretary, added that Tinubu’s inclusive governance style had dismantled historical barriers. “He has prioritized merit over primordial sentiments, proving that unity and progress can coexist. This resonates with Nigerians tired of divisive politics.”

The Peace Advocates: Healing Divisions Ahead of 2027

In a parallel development, a coalition within the Oyo APC called The Peace Advocates reiterated its commitment to fostering unity within the party. Led by Dr. Akin Onigbinde, Chief Wale Ohu, and Prince Niran Olayoju, the group announced plans to tour Oyo’s six geopolitical zones to promote reconciliation among members.

"The 2027 elections will test our unity, and we aim to ensure the APC remains a harmonious front," Dr. Onigbinde stated during a courtesy visit to the state secretariat. The group praised the endorsement of Tinubu as a unifying decision, aligning with the party’s national leadership under Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

A Call to Action for Party Faithful

Youth and women’s wings of the Oyo APC also threw their support behind Tinubu. Alhaja Tinuade Adigun, the State Woman Leader, emphasized the president’s efforts to elevate women in governance, while Prince John Aremu, the State Youth Leader, highlighted youth-focused initiatives like the Youth Employment and Empowerment Program.

"All APC stakeholders must work tirelessly to mobilize voters," Aremu urged. “Tinubu’s re-election is our collective responsibility. His vision for a prosperous Nigeria cannot be sidelined by short-term political calculations.”

National Implications of Oyo’s Endorsement

The Oyo APC’s early endorsement reflects a broader trend within the party: a strategic push to solidify Tinubu’s re-election bid well ahead of the electoral cycle. By positioning him as the APC’s unequivocal flagbearer, the party aims to preempt opposition challenges and rally grassroots support.

Analysts suggest that Oyo, a political bastion for the APC, could serve as a model for other states to follow. The state’s endorsement may also embolden Tinubu to accelerate flagship projects, such as the Nigeria Gas Transportation Network and agricultural reforms, ahead of 2027.