By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) convened a crucial meeting on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, where it unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office. However, the meeting was marked by the conspicuous absence of key figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and ex-governors Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Kayode Fayemi.
The gathering, attended by President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, focused on party reforms, upcoming elections, and strategies for consolidating its hold on power.
In a significant move, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma tabled a motion to pass a vote of confidence in President Tinubu, which was seconded by former Edo State Governor and APC stalwart, Adams Oshiomhole. Addressing the committee, President Tinubu expressed gratitude for the support of party leaders, emphasizing that his administration’s economic and political reforms were beginning to yield positive results.
“The challenges we face as a nation are not insurmountable. With unity, focus, and determination, we are making steady progress,” Tinubu stated.
The NEC also deliberated on the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states, discussing strategies to ensure victory for the party. Another key resolution was the proposal for a non-elective national convention to address crucial party matters and strengthen internal cohesion ahead of future elections.
Security was tightened around the APC headquarters in Abuja during the meeting, highlighting its significance in shaping the party’s direction. The absence of some notable party members has, however, fueled speculation about internal divisions within the ruling party, though no official statement was issued regarding their nonattendance.
As the APC moves forward with its agenda, the resolutions from this NEC meeting are expected to shape the party’s strategy leading up to the 2027 general elections.