The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Bashiru, has strongly dismissed rumours of a northern conspiracy against President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
Speaking in Ibadan at a media roundtable organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone B, Bashiru insisted that northern Nigeria remains committed to Tinubu’s leadership, despite speculation suggesting otherwise.
Addressing journalists from the South-West, Bashiru described the alleged northern gang-up as “a lie from the pit of hell,” asserting that he speaks from “a position of knowledge.”
He referenced the warm reception Tinubu received during visits to northern cities like Kano, Katsina, and Gombe, highlighting street celebrations and growing public support. “I guide myself by Amilcar Cabral’s words: ‘Tell no lies, claim no easy victories,’” he stated.
The APC chieftain cited the popularity of the campaign song Omo Ologo by Dauda Kahutu Rarara as evidence of Tinubu’s grassroots acceptance in the North. “That song has become an anthem in many northern communities,” he said, emphasizing that cultural expressions of support reflect genuine political alignment with Tinubu’s vision.
Bashiru also took a swipe at opposition movements, particularly a newly formed coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), branding it a “mushroom party” filled with “self-serving individuals.” He insisted such groups lacked political relevance and were driven by selfish interests rather than national development.
Reaffirming APC’s dominance in the region, Bashiru mentioned states like Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Bauchi as strongholds actively supporting Tinubu’s second-term agenda. He maintained that influential northern figures continue to stand by the president, describing contrary claims as “beer-parlour gossip” without substance. “There’s no vacancy in Aso Rock until 2031,” he added.
Bashiru pointed to the APC’s performance in recent elections, boasting a 75 percent win rate in both national and off-cycle polls. “Those voting for our party are Nigerians, not Togolese, Cameroonians, or foreigners,” he said, underlining the party’s widespread acceptance across geopolitical zones.
On internal party matters, Bashiru said the resignation of former APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, would not destabilize the party.
He also briefly discussed his interest in contesting the Osun State governorship in 2026, declaring his chances to be “very bright,” while praising Tinubu’s inclusive governance and strides in national infrastructure.
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