APC Convention: Stakeholders Urge Tinubu, NEC to Retain Zoning Formula
Ahead of the highly anticipated All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention, top party stakeholders have intensified calls for the National Executive Committee (NEC) to retain the current zoning formula.
In a strategic move to ensure stability before the 2027 general elections, influential blocs within the party are urging President Bola Tinubu to throw his weight behind maintaining the status quo. The push is reportedly aimed at preventing an internal crisis that could arise from reshuffling key party positions.
Stability Over Change
Sources close to the party leadership reveal that the consensus is building around the need for continuity. With President Tinubu’s administration entering the second half of its first term, stakeholders argue that altering the zoning arrangement now could distract from governance and the "Renewed Hope" agenda.
This call for stability was echoed loudly this week by the South East APC Caucus. In a communiqué issued after their emergency meeting in Enugu, the group not only endorsed President Tinubu for a second term but also demanded that the party’s zoning structure remain untouched to guarantee fairness.
The 2027 Calculation
Political analysts believe this move is a calculated attempt to secure the President's ticket for 2027 without a primary battle. By retaining the current zoning formula, the party would effectively lock in the presidency for the South, silencing potential challengers from other zones.
"We cannot afford to experiment at this critical time," a senior party chieftain stated anonymously. "The zoning formula brought us victory in 2023. It is only logical that we sustain it to consolidate our gains."
A Unified Front?
While the South East and South West blocs appear united on this issue, eyes are now on the Northern caucus. Their support will be crucial for the NEC to ratify this position during the convention.
This political maneuvering comes amidst a busy week for the nation. While the APC puts its house in order, the economic sector is reacting to the Dangote Refinery's growing global leverage, and the security forces are celebrating the rescue of hostages in the Northwest.
Stay tuned to Naijarave for live updates from the APC National Convention ground.
