The move came after the initial roster sparked outrage inside the ruling party, with top stakeholders accusing the Presidency of sidelining key figures and ignoring the party’s political hierarchy and regional balance.
According to sources close to the process, Tinubu directed the Presidency, the National Assembly leadership, and the APC National Working Committee to go back to the drawing board. The goal, they said, is to produce a new list that properly reflects the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 elections.
Why The President Pulled The Plug
Insiders say Tinubu was not happy with how the first list was put together. A source told The Spectacles: “The President was shocked that experienced party leaders and major stakeholders were left out of the final composition. He wants a campaign council that unites everyone, not one that divides.”
The controversial list had named former Zamfara Governor, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari, as Director-General. But several heavyweights were missing, and that is what fueled the backlash.
Prominent names absent include:
- Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu
- Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo (SAN) — who was a lead spokesman in 2023
- Former Plateau Gov. Simon Lalong — DG of the 2023 campaign council
- NSA Nuhu Ribadu — who handled stakeholders in 2023
- Former Kogi Gov. Yahaya Bello — ex-National Youth Coordinator
- Former Govs. Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun
- Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu
- Edo Gov. Monday Okpebholo — a key mobilizer in the South-South
The arrangement also raised eyebrows over protocol. Senate President Godswill Akpabio was listed as Deputy DG for the Southern campaign alongside Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Gov. Mai Mala Buni. Party stakeholders argued that placing the No.3 citizen in that position alongside other NASS officials created a hierarchy problem.
What Happens Next
The President has not removed Yari as DG, sources say. But the entire structure will be reworked to correct the imbalances and ensure all regions and power blocs are carried along.
The APC NWC, working with NASS leadership, is expected to submit a revised list in the coming days.
The controversy highlights the delicate politics of building a winning team for 2027, with Tinubu seeking to avoid internal rifts early.
