In a stunning move, a coalition of influential All Progressives Congress (APC) members has initiated secret talks to establish a new mega party, poised to challenge President Tinubu’s dominance in the 2027 general elections. Sources privy to the discussions have revealed that former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, embattled former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former media director to Tinubu’s campaign, Femi Fani-Kayode, are spearheading the formation.
Betrayal and Revenge: Yahaya Bello’s Motivations
Yahaya Bello, believed to be operating behind the scenes, is driven by a sense of betrayal and a desire for political revenge. Having played a crucial role in APC’s rise to power, Bello feels abandoned and targeted by the party he helped bring to prominence. Insiders suggest that Bello’s involvement in the mega party formation is a calculated move to exact revenge on his former allies.
Bello’s Grievances
Sources close to Bello reveal that he feels marginalized and excluded from key decision-making processes within the APC. His supporters argue that Bello’s contributions to the party’s success have been overlooked and undervalued. This perceived slight has fueled Bello’s determination to create a new political platform that will challenge the APC’s dominance.
Atiku’s Loyalists Join the Fray
Loyalists of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have also been fingered in the mega party formation. Although Atiku himself claims to have a chance at securing the leading opposition party ticket, his supporters are hedging their bets by backing the new party. This development raises questions about Atiku’s future political moves and potential alliances.
_El-Rufai’s SDP Gambit_
The El-Rufai group is pushing for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to be the platform for the new mega party. This strategic choice is rooted in SDP’s historical significance as the platform of late Chief MKO Abiola. However, El-Rufai’s true intentions remain unclear, with some speculating that he may return to the PDP to ensure his political godson pays for perceived betrayal.
_Fani-Kayode’s Role_
Femi Fani-Kayode, a former media director to Tinubu’s campaign, has also joined the mega party formation. His involvement is seen as a significant blow to Tinubu’s camp, given Fani-Kayode’s intimate knowledge of the president’s political strategies. Sources suggest that Fani-Kayode’s role will be crucial in shaping the new party’s media narrative and political messaging.
Implications and Uncertainties
The formation of this mega party has significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape. With APC heavyweights turning against President Tinubu, the 2027 elections are poised to be intensely contested. The outcome of this power struggle remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Nigerian political terrain is about to witness a seismic shift.
Potential Consequences
If successful, the mega party could potentially split the APC’s vote, paving the way for an opposition party victory. Alternatively, the new party could attract disgruntled APC members, further weakening the ruling party’s grip on power. As the political landscape continues to evolve, one thing is certain – the 2027 elections will be a defining moment in Nigeria’s political history.