Tinubu chairing campaign council signals panic — Baba Yusuf

President Bola Tinubu’s decision to chair the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 election is a sign of panic within the ruling party, Political analyst Baba Yusuf has alleged.

Yusuf made the observation when he appeared on Channels TV Inside Sources on Sunday.

Recall that the APC named Tinubu as Chairman of the Presidential Campaign Council, with Vice President Kashim Shettima and the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, serving as Vice Chairmen.

Former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari was appointed Director-General, while Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma was named Secretary.

Speaking on the development, Yusuf argued that the President’s direct leadership of the campaign structure suggests the ruling party views the 2027 contest as a serious challenge.

His comments come amid growing controversy over the composition of the 2027 campaign council, with opposition figures and political stakeholders questioning the inclusion of serving government officials and other appointees.

The controversy was particularly heightened by concerns over roles assigned to serving public figures, including Federal Inland Revenue Service Chairman Zacch Adedeji and senior defense officials. Members of the House of Representatives’ Save Democracy Group warned that the involvement of public officials could blur the line between government responsibilities and partisan politics.

The council’s makeup also drew criticism from both within and outside the APC, reportedly prompting the Presidency to review the roster shortly after its release due to questionable inclusions, omissions, and other anomalies.

The APC, however, denied reports that it had withdrawn the campaign council list, clarifying that any adjustments would be formally communicated by the party.

With the 2027 presidential election approaching, the situation has intensified debate over the APC’s campaign strategy and the extent to which the ruling party views the upcoming race as a threat to Tinubu’s re-election bid.