By Prof. Iyorwuese Hagher
As Nigeria’s political landscape realigns ahead of 2027, the All Progressives Congress (APC) faces a critical question: what ticket configuration best serves its electoral fortunes and the imperative of national unity?
With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed as the APC’s presidential candidate, the party has yet to name a running mate. Meanwhile, opposition camps have moved swiftly. Peter Obi (Nigeria Democratic Congress) has chosen Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso—restoring a Christian-Muslim balance. Atiku Abubakar (African Democratic Congress) is widely expected to pick a Christian running mate from the South.
These developments, argues this analysis, compel the APC to look beyond old assumptions and turn its attention to the North-Central region.
A region of strategic balance
The North-Central—comprising Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, and the FCT—offers a significant bloc of Christian voters within the North and embodies the Middle Belt’s aspiration for inclusion. Among its leaders, Senator George Akume, CON, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, stands out.
Akume’s political trajectory mirrors the progressive movement’s evolution. A former governor, senator, minority leader, and minister, he has demonstrated rare institutional memory, administrative competence, and unwavering party loyalty. His temperament—patient, consensus-driven, and bridge-building—offers a sharp contrast to the divisiveness that often characterises modern politics.
The Benue factor
In the 2023 election, Benue State—a Christian-majority region—gave significant support to the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket, prioritising national stability over sectarian sentiment. Political analysts note that such loyalty is rarely forgotten. Recognising Akume would not only reward that sacrifice but also consolidate APC support across the Middle Belt, where Benue remains a bellwether.
A missing seat at the table
As 2027 approaches, the South-West holds the presidency. The South-East and North-East have produced major contenders. Yet the North-Central remains largely absent from the highest levels of the emerging equation.
“The North-Central has waited patiently,” the analysis concludes. “Its case is built not on entitlement but on contribution, sacrifice, loyalty, and strategic relevance. The time has come for that case to be heard.”
The choice before the APC, therefore, is not merely tactical but foundational: to bind itself to old formulas, or to embrace the region that may hold the key to both victory and cohesion.