Supporters of various All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders, both former and serving, are actively advocating for their preferred candidates to be appointed in the forthcoming second round of ministerial positions by President Bola Tinubu.
The competition for nominations is particularly intense in states like Plateau, Adamawa, Zamfara, Kano, and Bauchi.
Power Players Pushing for Their Candidates
Power players within the APC, who missed out on the first round of ministerial appointments, are now engaged in the struggle to secure positions for their favored candidates.
In Zamfara state, this contest involves several former governors and a senator, with strong support rallying behind Bello Matawalle, a former governor, due to his significant backing and past performance.
Another contender is ex-Governor Mahmoud Shinkafi, who is being advocated for his substantial role in supporting the APC during the previous election campaign.
Lobbying and Rivalry within the Party
A party executive revealed that between four and five names are currently lobbying to gain the attention of President Bola Tinubu for the ministerial slot in their respective states.
The competition is fierce, with various camps within the party declaring their interests in influencing the appointments.
Lagos State’s Demand for Native Representation
In Lagos State, there is a demand from local inhabitants for a native resident to fill the ministerial position, following their disappointment after losing the state House of Assembly speakership race.
Lagos, being President Tinubu’s home state, was initially left out of the list of 28 nominees, and Wale Edun, a close ally of the president, had his nomination moved to represent Ogun State.
This has created a potential opening for a Lagos native to be appointed.
Internal Disagreements and Power Struggles
The ministerial selection process is facing internal disagreements and power struggles across states such as Plateau, Adamawa, Gombe, Kano, and Kogi.
These disputes arise from clashing interests among different blocs, contentious re-election bids, disagreements over nominees, and the question of regional representation.
Hopes for Preferred Candidates in the Second Batch
As the ministerial nominations continue, the various factions within the APC will closely monitor developments, hoping that their preferred candidates will secure positions in the upcoming second batch of President Tinubu’s appointments.
The process remains dynamic and challenging as different factions seek to assert their influence.