By Ben Adaji
As President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, are working round the clock to neutralise the supposed tactics and strength of the opposition, preparatory for the 2027 general elections, political pundits have identified lack of reward for loyalty as a big factor that may work against Tinubu’s re-election.
It is a known fact that in the North East, there are numerous APC chieftains and loyalists who worked relentlessly for the victory of President Tinubu and the party during the 2023 general elections that have completely been forgotten or not considered for appointments.
There were loyal and hardworking members of the party who did not only commit their huge resources to ensure victory for the party in their respective areas, but laid down their lives to see that Tinubu emerged president in 2023.
It has become common for politicians whose sole aim is to be part of any government in power jostle to defect to the winning party after elections and also members of the APC who contributed little or nothing to its victory are enjoying the perks of electoral victory.
It was anticipated that well-grounded politicians and loyal party men that endured in the opposition despite the challenges of doing so till the APC emerged victorious, need to be rewarded.
The last election showed the true colour of supposedly big men that have profited from the party, but could not deliver even their polling units. These men are now hobnobbing and jostling to remain relevant and eat from the cake they were not part of the baking.
Another dangerous category are party men that openly displayed anti-party tendencies under the guise of religion, a lot of whom caused loss of valuable votes. This category of politicians are very dangerous and untrustworthy, as they would continue to serve as in-house enemies to the party.
It was discovered that politicians who fought the party and tried unwholesome political antics during the elections turned around overnight and tried to reap where they did not sow.
Observers have urged President Tinubu and the APC to adopt the adage “You cannot work for UBA and expect your salary to come from First Bank”, likewise, they cannot work for the opposition and expect a reward from the APC.
Just like several others from the North East region, Chief David Kente remains one of the most outstanding members of the APC that is yet to be rewarded for his hard work and loyalty.
Kente hails from Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, same as the present governor who is in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, but he is considered a major player in the party, securing the senatorial seat and two National Assembly seats for the same zone during the 2023 general elections.
For many political observers, there is growing concern that Kente, who remains a major player in the APC, has been ignored by the federal government with his loyalty and sacrifices unrecognized.
The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu aims to deliver a better, more secure and prosperous Nigeria. With Kente’s expertise and network, the agenda can be implemented more effectively, particularly in the north. The recent by-election victories demonstrate the potential for success in future polls and with the right leadership and strategy, Kente’s involvement would be crucial in shaping the party’s success in the mobilization of support for the president and the ruling party.
The need for inclusive leadership cannot be overstated. The Tinubu administration should prioritise incorporating individuals with diverse experience and backgrounds. Kente’s background and expertise would bring a unique perspective to the administration, enabling effective decision-making. This would promote national unity and development, essential for Nigeria’s prosperity.
Recently, the Taraba State-born politician emphasised APC’s determination to win the 2027 elections, citing its recent strategic victories in the by-elections. He has also been vocal about the need for infrastructural development in Taraba State, urging the North East Development Commission, NEDC, to prioritise road construction and other projects.
Kente’s experience, connection and loyalty make him an invaluable asset to President Tinubu. Pundits note that bringing him closer to the president would undoubtedly boost APC’s chances in the forthcoming elections. With his involvement, the administration can drive meaningful change and promote development in Nigeria. The president’s Renewed Hope Agenda would be more effective and the party’s dominance in Nigerian politics would be further consolidated, especially in the North East region.
The recent electoral successes underscore APC’s formidable presence. A key factor in this triumph is the contributions of stalwarts like Kente, whose grassroots connection and strategic acumen have been instrumental to the party’s exploits. His storied background in governance and development lends weight to his potential role in shaping the party’s fortunes.
As a seasoned grassroots politician, Kente’s synergy with Tinubu could prove a game-changer for the APC. His ability to galvanize support and drive party machinery would be a valuable asset in the forthcoming electoral contest. With him on board, the APC could consolidate its gains and expand its footprint, cementing its position as a dominant force in the North East politics.
The president’s vision for a rejuvenated Nigeria aligns with Kente’s convictions about the country’s future. Together, they could craft policies that foster national cohesion, economic growth and social progress. By leveraging his expertise and networks, the administration can navigate complex challenges and unlock new opportunities for development, ultimately yielding a brighter future for Nigerians.
Kente remains an APC chieftain whose political ideology and pedigree is unique, just as he maintains that the ruling party is the only alternative for 2027. He has no reservation about the ability of the president to positively change the fortunes of the country wherever he goes.
Chief Kente’s overwhelming influence as a major factor in APC in Taraba State is giving the opposition sleepless nights, especially as the people’s expectations from Governor Agbu Kefas has remained a mirage.
In Taraba State, he remains the only hope, providing succor to the less privileged and the vulnerable through his philanthropic outlet, the DSK foundation.
In the past few weeks, Kente has contributed in spreading the ‘gospel’ of President Tinubu to the nooks and crannies of Taraba, so much that many have come to the conclusion that his presidential ambition for 2027, is a walk over in Taraba.
For some stakeholders, the Tinubu administration is paying little premium to party loyalty in Taraba State.
A chieftain of the party, Shehu Usman said “it is as if the president does not know those who worked for him and the APC in the last election. Most of the people that were given appointments from Taraba worked against the party. Can you imagine the president giving appointment to someone who voted for the opposition and even displayed his ballot paper for the world to see that he worked against the APC? Today some of those who worked very closely with our candidate and ended up betraying him have been given appointments.
“On the contrary, people like DSK were instrumental in delivering Southern Taraba despite the fact that the incumbent governor is from the same region. Through his influence, APC got the Senate and House of Representatives seats among other key positions. Yet, the president has not considered him for any appointment.
“If you go to other areas, the story is the same. Those who really worked for the party got nothing. I think those close to the president are not advising him correctly”, he said.
