2027: Kalu Warns APC Chairman Over Opposition Governors’ Vote Pledges for Tinubu

2027: Kalu Warns APC Chairman Over Opposition Governors’ Vote Pledges for Tinubu

Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has cautioned the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, against depending on opposition governors’ promises to deliver votes for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kalu made the remarks during the APC’s screening exercise for aspirants ahead of the party’s national convention, where he also moved a motion that the party chairman should “take a bow and go” in recognition of his leadership.

Speaking at the event, Kalu urged the APC leadership to prioritize strengthening internal structures and grassroots mobilization rather than relying on external political assurances. He specifically warned that claims by opposition governors about delivering a percentage of votes should not be taken as guaranteed support at the polls.

He emphasized that electoral success depends on party unity, grassroots engagement, and voter mobilization, stressing that the APC must focus on delivering overwhelming support for the president rather than targeting minimal benchmarks. According to him, “One appeal I want to make to you is don’t be carried away by the governors of opposition parties promising to give Mr President 25 per cent during next year’s presidential election. We need 100 per cent vote delivery.”

Kalu further noted that political allegiance should be clearly defined, adding that individuals who genuinely support the president should formally join the APC instead of remaining outside while offering verbal support. He argued that party membership comes with responsibilities that cannot be substituted by informal political friendships.

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In his remarks, he also praised the APC chairman’s experience, describing him as a disciplined leader with a strong background in electoral processes and public service. Kalu encouraged him to continue building the party’s structure and expanding its reach nationwide, describing human resources as the foundation of political success.

Responding, Nentawe Yilwatda highlighted the APC’s growing influence across Nigeria, noting that the party currently maintains presence in all six geopolitical zones. He pointed to recent by-election victories across regions including the North, South West, South South, and South East as evidence of the party’s nationwide acceptance.

He added that the APC has continued to consolidate its internal processes, with many disputes being resolved through arbitration rather than prolonged court battles. According to him, this reflects the party’s commitment to internal cohesion and institutional stability.

Yilwatda also addressed the issue of membership influx, stating that while the party remains open to new entrants, it distinguishes clearly between registered members and friends of the party, emphasizing that full benefits and responsibilities are reserved for members.

The exchange highlights ongoing strategic positioning within the APC as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with party leaders focusing on consolidation, unity, and grassroots strength as key pillars for electoral success.

2027: Kalu Warns APC Chairman Over Opposition Governors’ Vote Pledges for Tinubu