My recent call for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to harness Prof. Zana Akpagu’s potential to gain traction in the North has predictably generated significant interests within both the ruling party and the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP). While some APC members are pondering why the party has yet to fully leverage one of its most valuable assets, the PDP is growing increasingly uneasy at the prospect of Prof. Akpagu’s re-emergence on the political scene.
However, as the discussion gains momentum and becomes increasingly engaging, I’d like to tackle a recurring question; how Prof. Akpagu, currently not in government, can achieve success in the North where former Governor Ben Ayade fell short despite being in office. This skepticism is flawed and neglects the evolving nature of our politics.
If a sitting Governor can lose control of his senatorial district, it is also possible that the opposition which has Senate as its highest office can face similar experience especially when a well-grounded individual like Prof. Akpagu is empowered to take the message of the party to the grassroots. The electorates now connect with leaders who genuinely engage with them, not just those with titles.
The victories of Gov. Bassey Otu, who overcame two previous senate election losses to the PDP, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who secured victory against a PDP candidate despite the entire Southern senatorial district being firmly under PDP control, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who rebounded from his 2019 senate election loss to win in 2023 despite the PDP’s continued dominance in Akwa Ibom state, serve as good examples that expose the weaknesses in their reasoning.
Besides, the APC’s defeat in the North can be attributed to several factors, with the most notable being the selection of unsuitable candidates and underestimating the electorates discernment. People should understand that our politics now values strategy and acceptability over mere power. President Tinubu’s victory against a serving Vice President, Minister, and Senate President during APC primaries epitomizes this paradigm shift that strategic appeal can defeat traditional power dynamics. In fact, even the Ayade’s reference they’re making is a good example!
Nevertheless, Peter Obi was a sensation during the last general elections and a lot of people leveraged on his appeal to win some elections. But before then, there was no candidate he supported in Anambra State where he was Governor for either years that won election after former Governor Willie Obiano. Our people are wiser now and are seeking substance over superficiality.
The APC must fortify its support base in the North by harnessing Prof. Akpagu’s immense goodwill and popularity. His influence is undeniable, with a remarkable record of creating unparalleled job opportunities for Cross River people, surpassing any leader, past or present.
As Education Commissioner, he oversaw the establishment of a record number of schools and midwifed the establishment of the state’s first university, a legacy that endures to this day. As one of the leaders with the broadest appeal and support base in the state, the party can significantly benefit from strategically positioning him.
