An All Progressives Congress (APC) support network, the Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027, has disputed claims that the ‘Tinubu Must Go’ campaign is gaining widespread support in northern Nigeria. The network argues that expressions of dissatisfaction do not necessarily translate to a regional rejection of President Bola Tinubu. According to a statement signed by Ali Oriri, the network's engagements with communities indicate continued support for the President's re-election.
The network acknowledged that living costs and insecurity remain significant concerns for Nigerians, but argued that voters should give the administration more time to implement its policies. Oriri stated that the people of the North understand that sustainable progress requires continuity of purposeful leadership. He cited road construction, electricity projects, and security operations as reasons for the network's confidence in Tinubu's standing.
The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027 described the ‘Tinubu Must Go’ movement as mere noise, lacking organised political strength. The network argued that assessments portraying discontent as a broad northern revolt overlook the administration's initiatives and the backing it retains among political stakeholders. Oriri said that what the North is experiencing is a growing appreciation for the roads being constructed, power projects advancing, and the renewed focus on security.
President Tinubu inherited deep structural problems, and the reforms he embarked upon were tough, but they are laying the foundation for a stronger economy, according to Oriri. The network said its members are explaining these realities to communities while organising support ahead of the 2027 election. Traditional institutions, youth associations, women’s organisations, and local political figures are central to the network's outreach efforts.
The network reported favourable responses from its engagements and pledged to work with other supporters to challenge what it described as misinformation about the administration's performance. Oriri accused promoters of the opposing campaign of exploiting frustration without presenting an adequate alternative to the government's economic and security policies. The network vowed not to allow a campaign built on frustration alone to define the political conversation in the North.
The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027 plans to expand its town hall meetings, community outreach, and consultations in the coming months. The network's comments did not include polling figures or membership estimates to substantiate its assessment of either campaign's strength. In an earlier report, Trust Radio associated the ‘Tinubu Must Go’ campaign with lawyer Abba Hikima and activist Hamza Nuhu Dantani, citing economic hardship, insecurity, and rising living costs as reasons for opposing Tinubu's second-term bid.
The exchange follows Tinubu's campaign launch in Kaduna on 24 October, where economic hardship and persistent security problems were identified as major issues confronting the President as he seeks re-election. The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027's statement reflects a broader debate about the President's performance and prospects for re-election.
Key points
- The APC group disputes claims of widespread support for the ‘Tinubu Must Go’ campaign.
- The network cites continued support for President Bola Tinubu, citing road construction and security efforts.
- The group accuses promoters of the opposing campaign of exploiting frustration without presenting an alternative to the government's policies.
