APC NEC meeting: Nigerians condemn ‘criminality endorsement’ as top party leaders stay away

DDM News

The recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked widespread criticism.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that many Nigerians have described the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term as a “criminality endorsement.”

The meeting took place at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja amid controversy over the absence of key party leaders.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo were among those who did not attend.

Other notable absentees included former governors Rotimi Amaechi, Nasir El-Rufai, and Kayode Fayemi.

Former Senate President Ahmed Lawan and Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, were also missing.

Their absence has fueled speculation about divisions within the APC leadership.

Despite these absences, the NEC meeting had strong attendance from Tinubu’s loyalists and key government officials.

President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio were present.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas also attended the meeting.

Several state governors and former governors were present to show their support for the president.

During the meeting, chants of “no vacancy at Aso Rock” filled the hall.

The NEC members officially endorsed Tinubu for a second term in the 2027 general elections.

Hope Uzodinma, the Imo State Governor and chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), moved the motion for the endorsement.

Former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, seconded the motion.

Many Nigerians see this move as a planned political strategy rather than a democratic decision.

Critics have labeled the endorsement as another case of “criminality endorsement” within the APC.

President Tinubu, in his speech, expressed gratitude to party leaders for their continued support.

He emphasized that his administration’s economic and security reforms were already showing positive results.

Tinubu assured party members that he would not let them down.

He called for reconciliation efforts to address internal grievances within the APC.

“I have heard your remarks on how we have strengthened national security and food security,” Tinubu stated.

He appreciated Nigerians for the electoral successes achieved across various states.

Tinubu noted that more people were joining the APC in the National Assembly.

On the economy, he claimed that food prices were reducing, especially during the Ramadan period.

He pledged to sustain “progressive changes” in governance and economic policies.

Tinubu acknowledged the need for a larger venue for future NEC meetings.

He assured members that steps would be taken to address this issue.

Despite these assurances, many Nigerians remain skeptical about Tinubu’s claims.

Critics argue that the endorsement lacked transparency and was politically motivated.

They see it as a forced agenda rather than a reflection of party consensus.

The phrase “criminality endorsement” has gained popularity among those who oppose the move.

APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje disclosed that the party inherited a huge legal liability.

He revealed that the APC had N8.987 billion in legal expenses from pre-election cases and election appeals.

Ganduje appealed for financial support to settle these legal debts.

He also proposed the construction of a new APC National Secretariat.

According to Ganduje, the new secretariat would provide adequate space for party operations.

It would also accommodate the newly established Progressive Institute.

He requested President Tinubu’s intervention in securing land for the project.

Critics argue that the party should focus on governance instead of new buildings.

Many Nigerians believe the APC’s priorities are misplaced during economic hardship.

Another key highlight of the meeting was the APC’s ongoing expansion efforts.

Ganduje announced that former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim had officially joined the APC.

Other notable defectors included former Labour Party governorship candidate Edwin Nkwegu and Senator Obinna Ogba.

Senator Uche Ekwunife from Anambra State also joined the ruling party.

According to Ganduje, these defections show the APC’s growing influence ahead of future elections.

Despite this expansion, public criticism of the NEC meeting remains strong.

Many Nigerians see the endorsement of Tinubu as undemocratic.

They argue that it was orchestrated by political loyalists rather than party consensus.

The phrase “criminality endorsement” continues to dominate discussions on the matter.

Public reactions highlight frustration with the APC’s political maneuvering.

Social media users have condemned the endorsement as a predetermined scheme.

Some Nigerians believe the party is ignoring real governance issues.

With the 2027 elections still years away, the endorsement appears premature.

Critics question why the APC is focusing on re-election instead of national development.

Many argue that Tinubu should concentrate on fixing economic and security challenges.

The controversy surrounding this NEC meeting has raised concerns about internal party democracy.

While Tinubu and his supporters celebrate the endorsement, others remain unconvinced.

The absence of key APC figures suggests that not all party members support Tinubu’s re-election.

Political analysts believe this internal division could affect the party’s future.

The term “criminality endorsement” reflects broader dissatisfaction with the APC’s leadership style.

Many Nigerians feel that the ruling party is more concerned with power than governance.

The APC leadership insists that the endorsement represents party unity.

However, the absence of major political figures tells a different story.

The growing discontent among party members could impact APC’s electoral chances.

Observers believe that the endorsement was rushed and politically motivated.

Public trust in the APC continues to decline due to such political maneuvers.

Nigerians are demanding real solutions to their daily struggles.

The cost of living remains high despite claims of economic improvements.

Security concerns persist in various parts of the country.

Many Nigerians feel disconnected from the APC’s leadership and decisions.

The party must address the concerns if it hopes to retain public support.

For now, the term “criminality endorsement” continues to define this controversial NEC meeting.

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