- Tinubu’s inner circle remains silent
By David Maxwell
As political realignments ahead of the 2027 presidential election gather momentum, former Zamfara State governor and serving senator, Abdul’aziz Yari, has emerged as the leading contender for the position of Director-General of the All Progressives Congress, APC Presidential Campaign Organisation.
Investigations by AljazirahNigeria indicate that despite intense lobbying by several influential politicians and party stakeholders, Yari is increasingly viewed by many within the ruling party as the most suitable candidate to coordinate the APC’s presidential campaign.
Although the party has yet to formally commence campaign preparations, discussions over the composition of a future campaign structure have quietly intensified among key APC blocs.
Sources familiar with the developments disclosed that several former governors, serving ministers, lawmakers and party chieftains have been positioning themselves for strategic roles. However, Yari’s name continues to dominate conversations whenever the issue of campaign leadership is raised.
A senior APC official told this medium that the former governor enjoys broad acceptability across different tendencies and leanings within the party.
“Among those being considered, Senator Yari appears to command the widest support. He has built relationships across regions and political interests, making him a strong contender for such a sensitive assignment,” the source said.
Supporters of the former governor point to his extensive political network, grassroots influence and longstanding role within the APC as key advantages. They argue that his experience in party administration and political mobilisation places him ahead of other aspirants seeking the position.
Party insiders also note that Yari remains one of the most influential figures within the APC and enjoys significant goodwill among stakeholders across the country.
According to sources, many party leaders see him as a consensus candidate capable of managing competing interests while maintaining cohesion within the ruling party.
A ranking APC member who spoke on condition of anonymity said campaign management requires more than popularity.
:It demands organisation, logistics, fundraising and political negotiation. Senator Yari has demonstrated capacity in all these areas over the years,” the source stated.
Despite Yari’s apparent advantage, the race remains open. Several ambitious politicians are said to be intensifying consultations and lobbying efforts to improve their chances of securing the strategic position.
Some are reportedly relying on their proximity to the Presidency, while others are banking on their contributions to previous electoral victories and influence within the party structure.
Meanwhile, members of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s inner circle have remained silent on the matter, fuelling speculation within APC ranks.
Repeated attempts by political actors to ascertain the President’s preference have reportedly yielded little information, creating room for continued manoeuvring by competing camps.
Party insiders, however, insist that no final decision has been taken.
As the APC gradually shifts attention towards retaining power in 2027, the battle for key positions within the party’s campaign organisation is expected to intensify. Yet, amid the growing scramble by political heavyweights, Abdul’aziz Yari appears to have established an early lead as the preferred choice of many influential stakeholders for the position of campaign director-general.
