Kwankwaso Slams APC’s New Campaign Council, Warns of Prolonged Economic Hardship for Nigerians
Kano — The vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has criticized the newly constituted All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, describing its composition as a continuation of the same system that has subjected Nigerians to prolonged economic hardship. The former Kano State governor made his remarks in a statement issued at the weekend, shortly after the APC unveiled a wide-ranging campaign structure to drive President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general election.
According to Kwankwaso, the makeup of the council raises fundamental questions about what the ruling party is truly offering Nigerians in the coming election cycle. He argued that many of those named to the council had either supported, defended, or actively participated in policies of the current administration, suggesting that their involvement signals more of the same governance approach rather than a fresh direction.
The former governor painted a picture of widespread economic strain across the country, pointing to rising food prices, the increasing cost of basic necessities, and shrinking job opportunities for young Nigerians. He also noted that farmers and business owners were struggling to stay afloat, while insecurity continued to disrupt livelihoods in several parts of the country. Essential public services, including healthcare and education, were similarly described as being under significant pressure.
Framing the 2027 contest in stark terms, Kwankwaso characterized the coming election as a struggle between ordinary Nigerians and political figures he accused of benefiting from and sustaining a system responsible for their difficulties. He urged citizens to use their votes to push back against what he termed continued oppression, calling instead for governance that is more accountable and centered on the needs of the people.
Kwankwaso further took specific aim at the appointment of former Zamfara State Governor Abdul’aziz Yari as Director-General of the campaign council, appealing directly to him to reconsider the role. He argued that Yari, having previously governed a state grappling with insecurity, poverty, and displacement, should be reluctant to lead a campaign aimed at extending an administration under which such challenges persist for many Nigerians, including those he once led.
The APC’s campaign council, unveiled over the weekend, features a broad list of prominent party figures, sitting and former governors, lawmakers, and political strategists, with Tinubu as chairman and Vice President Kashim Shettima as vice chairman. In response to Kwankwaso’s comments, an APC-aligned support group dismissed the criticism, suggesting it reflected discomfort with Yari’s appointment rather than substantive concern.
Kwankwaso’s remarks add to a growing chorus of opposition voices scrutinizing the ruling party’s preparations for 2027, as political actors across the divide begin sharpening their messaging ahead of what is expected to be a keenly contested election.
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