A prominent figure in Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has pledged robust support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, signaling early efforts to consolidate political backing in the critical northern state of Kano. Alhaji Faizu Alfindiki, a senior APC member and former Chairman of Kano Municipal Council, declared during a Wednesday meeting with Tinubu’s social media influencers that the party aims to secure “massive votes” for the president in the upcoming polls.
Speaking at the lunch gathering in Kano, Alfindiki commended the influencers for their six-month campaign promoting Tinubu’s policies and strengthening his appeal across Nigeria’s Northwest. He framed the event as a strategy session to refine their digital outreach, stating, “Your work has positioned Tinubu’s re-election bid in a firm and positive light here and across the North.” The praise highlights the growing role of online advocacy in Nigerian electoral politics, particularly in regions like Kano, which holds the country’s second-highest voter population.
Alfindiki described the 2027 elections as a “defining moment” for Northern Nigeria, emphasizing Tinubu’s “unmatched support” for the region as central to their endorsement. His remarks arrive amid shifting political dynamics, with opposition parties like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party seeking to challenge the APC’s influence. While not specifying policy achievements, the APC leader’s focus on regional loyalty suggests efforts to counter narratives of discontent over issues such as economic reforms and insecurity.
The former council chairman also cautioned against divisive identity politics, asserting that Northern voters would reject candidates exploiting ethnic divisions. “The North can no longer be deceived by those using tribalism to gain power,” he said, indirectly addressing historical tensions between Nigeria’s diverse regions. Analysts note that Kano’s political landscape remains complex, with voter priorities often tied to economic stability and infrastructure development.
With Nigeria’s presidential elections historically won through strong performances in populous Northern states, Alfindiki’s confidence in delivering Kano’s votes “on a platter of gold” underscores the region’s strategic importance. While the APC secured Kano in 2023, maintaining support may hinge on addressing local concerns ahead of 2027. The event reflects early mobilization by Tinubu’s allies to consolidate grassroots and digital networks, setting the stage for a fiercely contested campaign cycle.
