Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described the inclusion of opposition figures in the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council as a sign that President Bola Tinubu’s anticipated second term could be built around a broader political coalition.
Akpabio made the remarks during Wednesday’s plenary session of the Senate, following comments by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele on the planned inauguration of the presidential campaign council, which features political figures from different parties.
According to the Senate President, the composition of the council signals a departure from conventional party-based political arrangements and could pave the way for a government that accommodates diverse political interests.
He said the initiative reflected a commitment to national unity and cooperation beyond party affiliations, arguing that governance should be driven by competence, ideas and a shared desire to improve the country.
“This is not just an inclusive government in terms of infrastructure, revenue allocation and reforms. It is also an inclusive government in terms of unity of purpose in democracy,” Akpabio said.
He expressed optimism that Tinubu’s second term would reflect the broad-based structure of the campaign council, which he described as a coalition involving almost all political parties in the country.
Akpabio also congratulated Tinubu, APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda and leaders of the participating parties, describing the development as an important moment for Nigeria’s democratic process.
Among the political figures he highlighted were Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, a prominent figure associated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The Senate President said the participation of such figures could broaden the range of ideas available to the administration, irrespective of their political affiliations.
He specifically referenced Soludo’s economic and financial experience, expressing confidence that his contributions could help shape policies aimed at improving Nigeria.
Earlier, Bamidele had described the campaign council as a significant political development, noting that the involvement of figures from different parties demonstrated the possibility of cooperation across party lines.
He said Soludo and Adeleke had been named state coordinators for Anambra and Osun, respectively, while Wike was designated campaign coordinator for the FCT.
Bamidele described the arrangement as a “rainbow coalition,” adding that political leaders should use the campaign period to promote ideas, strengthen democratic institutions and focus on the interests of Nigerians.
The Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, who represents Benue South in the Senate under the PDP, seconded the motion for adjournment.
The development highlights the evolving political alliances surrounding Tinubu’s re-election campaign and raises questions about how cooperation among politicians from different parties could translate into appointments, policymaking and governance.
While Akpabio has presented the arrangement as a foundation for a unity government, the extent to which the cross-party alliance would shape the composition and policies of a future administration remains to be seen.
