SAN FRANCISCO, February 27, (THEWILL) – The Forum of All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairmen, during their meeting on Monday ahead of the National Executive Council meeting holding on Tuesday, “unanimously resolved” to propose a two-year tenure extension for the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun.
This comes amid uncertainties over the fate of Oyegun who is embroiled in running battle with Bola Tinubu, National Leader of the party, who recently accused Oyegun of indulging in detrimental actions aimed at sabotaging his presidential assignment of reconciling the warring interests within the party.
According to Nigerian Tribune, which reported sighting the hard copy of the communique by the 31 Chairmen, they expressed support for the leadership of Oyegun as well as President Muhammadu Buhari, whom they urged to present himself for another term in 2019.
“The forum, after dissections and thorough appraisal of the APC-led Government, hereby unanimously pass a vote of confidence on our dear President Muhammadu Buhari, the National Chairman of our great party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and other leaders of our great party for their numerous achievements, despite the challenges so far experienced in our dear country,” read the communique.
“We also urge Mr President to present himself for (a) second tenure come 2019.
“In view of the short period between the time available for the proposed party congresses and INEC published timetable for the conduct of party primaries and general elections, the forum resolved that the tenure of the present officers of the party at all levels be extended by two years to avert challenges in the party.
“In view of the reasons as adduced above, and the fact that the present constitution as amended in 2014 has not been fully tested in the short life of the party, the forum resolved that the proposed amendment of the party constitution be suspended.
“We support His Excellency Senator Bola Tinubu-led peace and reconciliation committee and urge the committee to expedite action in reconciling members of the party. The forum also calls on all the members of our great party to give maximum support to the committee to achieve sustainable peace in the party.”
Meanwhile, a combined team of police and military personnel have taken over security at the National Secretariat of the party in preparation for the National Executive Committee meeting as truckloads of armed soldiers and policemen set up security checkpoints at the entrance and exit of Blantyre Street where the APC Secretariat is situated.
The President, his Vice, Yemi Osinbajo and the 24 governors on the APC platform are expected to attend the meeting.
Also, the Senate has adjourned Tuesday plenary to allow members of the APC attend the National Executive Council meeting of the ruling party.
