The North-East Coalition of APC Support Groups has officially thrown its weight behind former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, recommending him as the ideal running mate for President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 general election.
Dogara, a Christian from Bauchi State and a prominent advocate of a Muslim-Christian ticket, has been positioned by the coalition as a symbol of unity and inclusive governance.
Speaking at the end of a two-day meeting held in Gombe, the coalition’s chairman, Honourable Sha’abdini Bello, presented a communique on Monday outlining the group’s position.
“The coalition strongly recommended Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, as a suitable candidate for Vice President in the 2027 elections,” Bello declared.
He emphasized that the coalition’s endorsement was based on national interest, Dogara’s political experience, and his inclusive leadership style during his time in office.
“Dogara’s tenure in the 8th Assembly was marked by his inclusive leadership as evidenced by his appointments, which represented every state in the North-East and all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.”
“His proven track record as a unifying figure makes him a trusted and tested leader for the region and the nation,” he said.
Reaffirming their commitment to the party, the coalition also expressed strong support for President Tinubu and the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje.
Members were urged to maintain unity, loyalty, and discipline, especially in light of what they described as the party’s current phase of “Renewed Hope and National Rebirth.”
In addition to the endorsement, the group urged the president to prioritize the Akwanga-Gombe Road project, describing it as a critical link between the North-East, Abuja, and other parts of the country.
The move comes amid increasing political speculation, particularly following a recent APC stakeholders meeting in the North-East.
Observers noted the absence of any mention of current Vice President Kassim Shettima in Ganduje’s remarks endorsing Tinubu for a second term, fueling reports that the president may be considering a new running mate.
