A faction within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged President Bola Tinubu to reshuffle his cabinet, alleging that some ministers are sabotaging the government and warning that delays could undermine the party’s prospects in the 2027 general elections. The call was made by the APC League of Democrats, a support group, in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja and signed by its National Coordinator, Hon. Babajide Oyewole, and Secretary, Chief Rowland Okonkwo.
The group described the proposed reshuffle as “long overdue,” asserting that certain ministers are due for immediate removal to enhance governance efficiency. According to the statement, ministers such as Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Minister of Works Dave Umahi have demonstrated competence and could be retained. However, the League specifically accused the finance ministers of defying presidential directives to resolve a protracted dispute with Indigenous Contractors, whose outstanding payments total N4 trillion. This financial impasse has triggered persistent protests by contractors, civil society organizations, and lawyers at the Finance Ministry, highlighting administrative failures.
The statement emphasized that these unresolved issues damage the government’s reputation and operational effectiveness, directly impacting the APC’s electoral viability. “The President must act urgently to protect the government’s image, ensure efficiency, and safeguard APC’s chances in the 2027 elections,” the group warned, linking ministerial performance to the party’s political future.
This internal pressure emerges as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 presidential election, where the APC seeks to maintain power amid economic pressures and public criticism over contract management. The N4 trillion debt to Indigenous Contractors represents a significant fiscal burden, often cited as a barrier to economic recovery and service delivery. The League’s appeal underscores broader concerns about bureaucratic inertia and accountability within Tinubu’s administration, which has faced scrutiny since its inception.
As calls for cabinet changes intensify from various party quarters, the response from President Tinubu will likely influence both policy implementation and the APC’s campaign strategy. The reshuffle debate reflects ongoing tensions within the ruling party as it navigates governance challenges ahead of the national polls, with watchdogs and voters closely monitoring ministerial conduct and fiscal stewardship.
