Abuja, Nigeria – April 2025
Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has once again stepped into the national spotlight, offering what he described as “strong but necessary advice” to governors serving under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking at a closed-door meeting with select party leaders and stakeholders in Abuja, Buhari emphasized the urgent need for reform, discipline, and grassroots connection within the party structure—particularly at the gubernatorial level.
His comments come amid rising public dissatisfaction with governance in several APC-led states and growing tension ahead of the 2027 general elections. The former president's message is being seen as both a warning and a roadmap for political survival and ethical leadership.
Buhari’s Three-Pronged Message: Reform, Responsibility, and Results
Sources present at the meeting indicated that Buhari’s message revolved around three core themes:
1. Restoring the Party’s Original Vision
Buhari reportedly urged APC governors to reconnect with the party’s founding values—particularly its original mission to fight corruption, promote economic development, and serve the Nigerian people with integrity. He warned that the party risks losing its relevance if leaders deviate from this path.
“You must never forget why Nigerians gave us their mandate in the first place. It was not for personal gain, but for national renewal,” Buhari is quoted as saying.
2. Improving Governance at the State Level
The former president did not mince words about the perceived failure of some governors to meet the expectations of their constituents. He challenged APC governors to prioritize people-oriented policies, transparency, and responsible budgeting.
“Your performance in office is the most powerful campaign strategy you can ever have,” he noted, urging governors to invest more in healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security.
3. Preparing for the 2027 Elections with Unity and Strategy
Buhari also emphasized the need for party cohesion as Nigeria approaches another critical electoral season. He warned that internal division and infighting could lead to electoral losses, especially as opposition parties become more organized.
“A house divided cannot stand. If we fail to unite, we will hand victory to those who never earned it,” he warned.
Political Implications: Buhari’s Voice Still Carries Weight
Though no longer in power, Buhari remains a formidable figure within Nigerian politics. His rare public interventions often carry significant weight, especially among traditional APC loyalists and party elders. His advice to governors is widely seen as an attempt to reposition the APC as a party of reformers rather than power-seekers.
Political analysts believe Buhari’s latest intervention could ignite reforms within the party and encourage self-evaluation among its top officeholders.
“Buhari understands the importance of legacy. He wants the APC to be remembered as a party that changed Nigeria, not just held power,” said Dr. Femi Alade, a political science professor at the University of Lagos.
Governors Respond: Mixed Reactions from State Leaders
Reactions from APC governors have been mixed, with some welcoming Buhari’s message as timely and others quietly expressing concerns about public criticism from within the party.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State commended the former president’s stance, stating:
“Baba Buhari has always been a man of principle. His message today is a reminder that we are servants of the people, not masters.”
However, a few unnamed governors reportedly felt the message unfairly painted all state leaders with the same brush, arguing that many APC-led states are making genuine progress despite economic challenges.
APC National Leadership Weighs In
The APC national chairman, during a follow-up press conference, welcomed Buhari’s comments, stating they should be taken as constructive feedback. He urged party members to use the former president’s words as a catalyst for internal reform and renewed focus on governance.
“Our party must be agile, responsive, and reflective. Buhari's advice is not a criticism—it’s guidance,” the chairman said.
Civil Society and Public Reactions
Nigerians on social media have also responded in droves. Hashtags like #BuhariWarnsAPC and #GovernWithPurpose have trended on X (formerly Twitter), with many citizens calling for APC governors to take the advice seriously and deliver real change on the ground.
One user wrote:
“Buhari may not have been perfect, but he’s right—governance is about service, not self.”
Another commented:
“We need leaders who listen. Will the APC governors take this to heart or ignore the writing on the wall?”
The Road to 2027: A Party at a Crossroads
As Nigeria slowly builds toward the 2027 general elections, internal reflection within major political parties is critical. Buhari’s remarks may serve as a wake-up call for APC governors and national stakeholders to re-align their priorities.
Whether or not this advice will translate into action remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the political terrain is shifting, and those who fail to evolve with it may find themselves on the wrong side of history.
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