“Laolu Akande, former spokesperson for ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, has suggested that the Northern governors within the All Progressives Congress (APC) hold significant sway over President Bola Tinubu’s choices for ministerial appointments.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, Akande highlighted the crucial role played by the governors in ensuring regional balance in the party’s zoning arrangement during the 2022 presidential primaries. He credited their commitment to the principle of zoning, especially by the Northern governors, for Tinubu’s successful emergence as the party’s presidential candidate, emphasizing their influence in shaping the political landscape.
Akande explained that the Northern APC governors’ intervention prevented any manipulation of power balance within the party and made it possible for Tinubu to secure the presidential candidacy. He praised their stance in urging the party to move towards a South-based candidate during the announcement process.
Regarding Tinubu’s delay in submitting the ministerial list, Akande clarified that the former vice president was meticulously scrutinizing potential candidates to ensure they possess strong technocratic capabilities for effectively addressing the nation’s challenges. Tinubu aims to strike a balance in appointing individuals with the right expertise and competence.
According to Akande, the law allows a 60-day window for the submission of the ministerial list, and Tinubu is expected to submit it before the week’s end to comply with the ultimatum passed into law by former President Muhammdu Buhari.”
