Former Sokoto State Governor, Muktar Shagari, has declared that the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu as the sole candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is both constitutional and politically sound. Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Friday, Shagari dismissed calls for open primaries within the APC, describing such a move as a needless distraction at a critical time for the party and the country.
Shagari emphasized that in political party dynamics, especially where an incumbent president or governor is involved, it is a norm for the party to rally behind the sitting leader rather than seeking alternative candidates. He noted that this practice ensures stability within the party and enhances the likelihood of continuity in governance.
“In political party dynamics, especially when there is an incumbent president or governor, it is customary for the party to support the sitting leader rather than search for another candidate,” Shagari said. “The sitting president or governor is typically granted the right of first refusal. We in the APC have absolute confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s ability to run this country effectively. For President Tinubu to fulfill the promises he made to Nigerians, he needs a second term.”
The endorsement followed a joint declaration by the APC National Assembly Caucus and the party’s Governors’ Forum on Thursday, which unanimously endorsed Tinubu for a second term in office, praising his leadership and progress since assuming office.
Shagari’s comments come amid ongoing debates within Nigeria’s political circles about the merits of open primaries versus consensus candidates in major political parties. Open primaries, a process where party members and sometimes the general public vote to choose a candidate, have been championed by some as a way to enhance democracy and transparency.
However, Shagari and several other APC stalwarts argue that open primaries at this stage could fracture the party’s unity, delay preparations for the 2027 general elections, and provide an opportunity for opposition forces to exploit divisions within the ruling party.
“Open primaries will only serve to distract us at a time when we should be focused on governance and delivering results to Nigerians,” he added.
President Tinubu’s administration has faced mixed reviews since its inception, with supporters pointing to infrastructural developments, economic reforms, and improved security strategies. Critics, however, have raised concerns about lingering insecurity, inflation, and governance challenges.
Despite this, Shagari reiterated the APC’s confidence in Tinubu’s capacity to lead the country effectively for another term. He urged Nigerians to give the president more time to consolidate his achievements.
“For Nigeria to experience sustained progress and development, it is imperative that President Tinubu be given the opportunity to complete his agenda,” Shagari stressed.
The endorsement and the dismissal of open primaries come amid rising political tensions as the 2027 elections draw near. Opposition parties and factions within the APC continue to call for more inclusive candidate selection processes.
Yet, the APC leadership appears determined to avoid internal conflicts and focus on maintaining party cohesion. This strategy, according to political analysts, could either strengthen the party’s chances of retaining power or risk alienating some party members seeking a more democratic selection process.
As Nigeria approaches the next general elections, the debate over candidate selection processes remains critical. While Shagari and others emphasize the benefits of endorsing an incumbent, voices advocating for open primaries argue for broader participation to deepen Nigeria’s democratic practices.
For now, the APC seems united behind President Tinubu, with prominent figures like Shagari championing the cause for continuity and stability.