Presidential endorsements, opposition activities raise eyebrows

Daily Trust had reported earlier that the presidency, in a statement issued on April 13, disowned political billboards promoting the 2027 elections, warning that premature campaigning violates the Electoral Act. The statement further cautioned that such actions could undermine electoral credibility and create unfair advantages. Nonetheless, the billboards remain visible in many cities, raising concerns […]

Daily Trust had reported earlier that the presidency, in a statement issued on April 13, disowned political billboards promoting the 2027 elections, warning that premature campaigning violates the Electoral Act. The statement further cautioned that such actions could undermine electoral credibility and create unfair advantages. Nonetheless, the billboards remain visible in many cities, raising concerns about enforcement.

But this paper also reported that key figures in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have openly promoted a second term for President Bola Tinubu. Among them is the immediate past APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, who urged Northern politicians to shelve their presidential ambitions until 2031—an apparent endorsement of Tinubu’s re-election bid. Ganduje made the remarks while addressing APC support groups at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.

Similarly, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has publicly declared support for Tinubu’s second term.

Beyond Abuja, similar political activities have been reported in Kaduna, Kebbi, and Kwara states, sparking criticism from opposition parties, civil society organisations and legal experts. Critics argue that these actions not only breach the Electoral Act but also erode democratic norms, constitutional order, and electoral discipline.

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In Kaduna, APC leaders in the North West zone openly endorsed Tinubu for a second term during a meeting, despite the absence of an official campaign period.

Most recently, President Tinubu received the endorsement of 22 APC governors and leaders of the National Assembly as the party’s sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election. The endorsement, which took place on May 22 at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa during the APC National Summit, has been described by observers as both shocking and premature.

Apart from these, the activities of the opposition-led African Democratic Congress (ADC) have also dominated media coverage.