‘We deserve inclusion’ — APC PCC asks Tinubu to empower loyalists ahead of 2027

Mohammed Al-Hassan, leader of a group of concerned members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council (PCC), has called on President Bola Tinubu to reward loyalists who secured his 2023 election victory. 

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, Al-Hassan said the Saturday by-election victories recorded by the APC are a reflection of Tinubu’s “political doggedness, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to democratic consolidation”.

“We heartily congratulate His Excellency, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR; our national chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda; and other party leaders on the resounding success of the recent bye-elections,” he said.

“This victory is yet another testament to Mr President’s political strength.”

He said members of the presidential campaign council were instrumental to Tinubu’s success at the 2023 polls.

“The 2023 general election victory was a direct result of a broad, well-coordinated effort — most crucially from members of the APC presidential campaign council,” he said.

“This team carried your message to every ward, defended your mandate in hostile terrains, and built the political momentum that secured your win.”

He said PCC members are not mere supporters but tested politicians with influence that could determine the outcome of the next election cycle.

“They are not just loyalists; they are tested political operatives, each with influence that can either strengthen or weaken our 2027 prospects depending on how they are engaged today,” he said.

Al-Hassan warned that the perceived exclusion of campaign council members from appointments and patronage is creating discontent within the party.

“The current perception of neglect in appointments and patronage towards many campaign council members is not just an internal grievance—it is a strategic vulnerability,” he said.

He said keeping the APC base energised and united would require that those who worked for victory be recognised and empowered.

“In politics, the greatest asset ahead of an election is a fully motivated and united base,” he said.

“When key contributors feel valued, they double their efforts; when they feel overlooked, they disengage — and disengagement at this level creates openings for opponents to exploit.”

He urged Tinubu to take deliberate steps to re-engage PCC members across all zones as part of a broader strategy to secure a second term.

“By deliberately increasing the inclusion and patronage of these members now, you would not merely be rewarding loyalty; you would be fortifying your political machinery for 2027,” he said.

“Every one of these individuals brings with them grassroots networks, financial capacity, and proven campaign expertise — resources that money alone cannot buy.”

He said the APC must act now to maintain its strength and cohesion.

“Re-engaging and empowering these stakeholders ensures the party’s cohesion, neutralises internal dissent, and maximises our reach in every political zone,” he said.

“This is not a favour to the campaign council—it is a calculated investment in the future stability of your administration and the inevitable battle for re-election.”

Al-Hassan said 2027 is fast approaching and that the time to act is now.

“The day is far spent, and 2027 is closer than it appears. Now is the time to consolidate, strengthen alliances, and secure the loyalty of every proven hand that delivered victory in 2023,” he added.