APC Convention: Tinubu, Shettima, governors arrive

Vice President Kashim Shettima and President Bola Tinubu.

By Omeiza Ajayi

ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima were present on Friday night as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) commenced its 8th elective National Convention at Eagle Square, Abuja.

Also in attendance were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, APC governors, ministers, lawmakers, and party delegates.

The convention officially began at about 8:15 p.m.

However, activities across Abuja were disrupted as tight security measures accompanied the event, with journalists reportedly barred and harassed by security operatives.

Heavy deployments of police and soldiers cordoned off major access roads leading to Eagle Square, restricting movement and forcing many accredited journalists to trek long distances to access the venue.

Despite possessing valid accreditation tags, several reporters were turned back at checkpoints, while some security personnel allegedly threatened to open fire on those attempting to gain entry.

Some journalists who eventually gained access sought temporary shelter at the Nasarawa State Pavilion but were later driven away following verbal confrontations with party delegates.

The convention, largely organised under a consensus arrangement, featured aspirants screened for positions within the National Working Committee (NWC).

While most positions are expected to be filled through affirmation of consensus candidates, the offices of Deputy National Chairman (South) and National Welfare Secretary remain contested.

Among those cleared for consensus positions is Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda from Plateau State as National Chairman. Other key figures include Hon. Abubakar Dalori (Deputy National Chairman, North) and Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, who is set to retain his position as National Secretary.

Additional consensus candidates include Professor Abdulkarim Abubakar Kana (Deputy National Secretary), Mu’azu Bawa Rijau (National Vice Chairman, North Central), Barrister Muritala Aliyu Kankia (National Legal Adviser), Felix Morka (National Publicity Secretary), and Dayo Israel (National Youth Leader).

In the contested races, Chief Emma Eneukwu is set to face Hon. Ben Nwoye for the position of Deputy National Chairman (South), while the contest for National Welfare Secretary is between Hon. Ignatius Nwapa and Hon. Nduka Anyanwu.

Despite efforts to ensure a seamless convention, the conduct of security operatives cast a shadow over the exercise, leaving journalists struggling to effectively cover proceedings.