The North Central Forum for Peace and Development has endorsed former Plateau State Governor, Senator Joshua Dariye, as its preferred candidate for the position of National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress.
In a statement issued on Monday and jointly signed by key members including Musa Haruna (Nasarawa), Alaku Ogulu Abubakar, Umar Adamu Musa (Kogi), Isiaka Sule, Tenimu O. Idris, Momoh Danga Yahaya (Plateau), Alhaji Ali Baba Gagare, Chehagap David, Sunday Danat Gulot (FCT), Hamza Ahmed Bawa, Ezekiel Sabo, Muhammed Salihu, and National Coordinator Haruna Musa, the group described Dariye as a detribalized and selfless leader with the experience needed to lead the party.
The forum praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and his Renewed Hope Agenda, which it said is already transforming Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. However, it emphasized the need for unity and inclusiveness in selecting the next APC National Chairman, arguing that Dariye’s emergence would strengthen the party’s prospects in future elections.
“It is our firm belief that the APC should consider, as its National Chairman, a detribalised and selfless administrator with a proven record of electoral victories and wide political experience,” said Musa Haruna.
The group highlighted Dariye’s achievements as former Governor of Plateau State and former Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, noting his ability to manage political challenges while maintaining peace. It also referenced his legal battles, stating that he faced them lawfully and remained committed to democratic values.
“Senator Joshua Dariye has consistently shown himself to be a man of peace and vision, fully committed to the ideals of the APC and the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” the statement read.
The NCFPD cited opinion polls conducted across the North Central region showing strong support for Dariye as the preferred candidate for the party’s leadership. It argued that his appointment would ensure regional and religious balance in the APC’s hierarchy.
“It is our strong position that the selection of H.E. Joshua Dariye, from the North Central region and of the Christian faith, as National Chairman of the APC, will significantly boost the party’s image and support base,” the group added.
The forum called on President Tinubu and the APC National Executive Committee to prioritize party unity and long-term stability by endorsing Dariye for the position.
“We are confident that, once appointed as National Chairman, Senator Dariye will hit the ground running, using his excellent public relations skills and drawing on the goodwill and connections of Mr President,” the statement concluded.
The endorsement comes as the APC prepares for its next national convention, with stakeholders weighing options for key leadership positions ahead of future elections.
