APC's Basiru asks ex-state assembly speakers to mobilise for Tinubu in 2027

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, has asked former presiding officers of State Houses of Assembly to help mobilise support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election in 2027.

He spoke in Kaduna at an event organised by the Kaduna State chapter of the Former Presiding Officers of State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria. The theme was "Kaduna 2026: United Voices of Experience, All Together for Tinubu 2027."

According to Vanguard and Leadership, Basiru described the former speakers and their deputies as experienced politicians whose grassroots networks could help the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He said they were well placed to explain the government's economic policies to ordinary Nigerians, answer critics and make the case for the administration's record.

Why it matters to voters

Basiru's message was aimed squarely at the cost-of-living debate. He said Tinubu inherited serious fiscal pressure when he took office, which he said forced hard choices, including the removal of the petrol subsidy and a more market-driven foreign exchange regime.

He argued that the reforms, despite the early hardship they caused, have improved the finances of state governments. That, he said, has helped states pay salaries and pensions and invest in development projects.

Many Nigerians are still feeling the pinch of higher fuel prices and a weaker naira, and the government has faced repeated criticism over the cost of living.

Basiru also took aim at the opposition. He challenged leaders who previously held powerful government positions to account for their records before criticising the current administration.

He singled out former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, questioning his economic proposals and pointing to his time in previous administrations, including the privatisation and sale of national assets. He did not give details.

He warned voters against what he called unrealistic promises and politically motivated narratives from opposition figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

Basiru urged the former presiding officers to step up public enlightenment, engage their communities and encourage voters to judge parties and candidates on their records and policies.

He said sustained mobilisation, clear communication and unity among party stakeholders would be needed for the APC's campaign.

What happens next

The 2027 general elections are still more than a year away, but parties have begun positioning. The APC is leaning on experienced former lawmakers to carry its message to the grassroots, while the opposition is expected to keep pressing the government on the economy.