Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, has defended the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s internal strategy, saying the ruling party is consolidating its strength and fostering unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Buni, who chairs the APC Conflict Resolution, Strategy and Mobilisation Committee, said the body was constituted in response to the massive influx of high-profile defectors into the party, a development he described as both a strength and a management challenge.
He noted that prominent figures such as Dave Umahi, Bello Matawalle, and Ben Ayade, alongside other political heavyweights, have boosted the party’s numerical advantage.
According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu established the committee to manage relationships among new and existing members, resolve internal disputes, and prevent potential conflicts as the party prepares for future elections.
“The committee is designed to address existing and emerging threats while providing proactive solutions to strengthen the party,” Buni said, adding that efforts so far have improved cooperation among previously divided stakeholders.
He pointed to the peaceful conduct of recent ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses, as well as the consensus-driven national convention, as clear signs that reconciliation efforts are yielding results.
Expressing optimism, Buni said the APC is positioning itself as a united front for the 2027 elections, noting that consultations and engagement with stakeholders remain ongoing.
On insecurity, the governor acknowledged the severity of the challenge, particularly in the North-East, where Yobe has been significantly affected by insurgency. He, however, highlighted progress made in restoring stability, including the return of displaced persons and ongoing reconstruction of affected communities.
Buni commended security agencies and local support groups for their sacrifices and urged Nigerians to play active roles by supporting security efforts and sharing credible information.
Reacting to concerns about possible Northern opposition to President Tinubu in 2027, Buni dismissed such claims, attributing them to individual political ambitions rather than a collective regional stance.
He further described Tinubu as a pan-Nigerian leader with a history of supporting politicians across regions, citing his past alliances with figures like Atiku Abubakar and Muhammadu Buhari.
On the economy, Buni admitted that challenges persist but linked them largely to the impact of insecurity, which has forced governments to divert resources toward rebuilding infrastructure destroyed by conflict.
He called on Nigerians to support ongoing reforms by the Tinubu administration, stressing that unity, peace, and collective responsibility remain critical to achieving national stability and economic prosperity.
