North Central Stakeholders Demand Equity and Fairness in APC Leadership

- August 16, 2024

The North Central region, which comprises of states such as Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory, has long been a stronghold for the APC. The region has consistently delivered significant votes for the party in past elections, playing a crucial role in the party's electoral victories at both the state and national levels.

However, despite the key role the North Central region has played in the success of the party, stakeholders in the region feel that they have not been adequately represented in key leadership positions within the APC. The appointment of Abdullahi Ganduje as national chairman was seen as yet another example of the region being sidelined in favor of other regions, particularly the North West.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, a former national chairmanship aspirant of the APC, Mohammed Saidu-Etsu, made a strong appeal to President Bola Tinubu. Saidu-Etsu called for the upcoming National Executive Committee meeting of the party to be used as an opportunity to reverse the injustice done to the North Central region and bring back the national chairmanship position to where it rightfully belongs. The stakeholders feel that their region has been overlooked and disregarded, and they are determined to rectify this situation.

With tensions running high and voices growing louder within the APC, the issue of the national chairmanship position has become a contentious topic that cannot be ignored. The North Central stakeholders have made it clear that they will continue to push for fairness and equity within the party, and they are counting on President Tinubu to address their concerns during the upcoming meeting. As the party navigates these stormy waters, the resolution of this issue will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the future of the APC and its leadership structure.

The agitation from the North Central stakeholders is not just about the recent appointment of Mr. Ganduje, but also about a larger issue of marginalization and neglect that they feel has been ongoing for far too long. The region has produced strong and capable leaders who have contributed significantly to the party's success, yet they have been overlooked when it comes to key positions of power and influence.

The call for the return of the national chairmanship position to the North Central region is not just about representation, but also about fairness and equity within the party. The stakeholders believe that it is crucial for the APC to reflect the diversity of the country in its leadership structure, and they are determined to fight for their rightful place at the table.

President Bola Tinubu, as the leader of the party, has the power to address the grievances of the North Central stakeholders and correct the perceived injustice done to the region. The upcoming National Executive Committee meeting presents an opportunity for him to demonstrate his commitment to unity and inclusivity within the party.

It is clear that the North Central stakeholders are not backing down, and they are prepared to escalate their agitation if their demands are not met. The APC cannot afford to ignore the legitimate concerns of a significant and loyal part of its base, and it is in the best interest of the party to heed the call for the return of the national chairmanship position to the North Central region.

In a rapidly changing political landscape, where alliances are shifting and loyalties are tested, the APC must strive to maintain unity and cohesion within its ranks. By addressing the grievances of the North Central stakeholders and ensuring that all regions are fairly represented in the party's leadership, the APC can strengthen its position and continue to lead Nigeria towards a brighter future.