The All Progressives Congress has dismissed reports that it has withdrawn the list of members appointed to the 2027 presidential campaign council for review.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, described the reports as rumours, insisting that any adjustment to the composition of the council would be officially communicated.
Morka stated this on Tuesday while reacting to reports that the party had withdrawn the list following concerns over the inclusion of some individuals and the omission of others.
“Rumours are not news. When people are carrying rumours, that is not news. There is fake news, and there is real news,” he said.
He added, “Nobody will give any list at the moment. But if there is any reason to update it, it would be announced properly.”
The APC had on Saturday unveiled its 2027 presidential campaign council, with President Bola Tinubu as chairman, while Vice-President Kashim Shettima and the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, were named vice-chairmen.
Former Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari, was appointed Director-General of the council, while Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, was named secretary.
The composition of the council has, however, generated controversy, particularly over the inclusion of some serving government officials and individuals who have faced corruption allegations.
Those listed include former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu; former Chairperson of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund board, Ngozi Olejeme; Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji; and Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu Yakubu.
Reports on Monday suggested that the party was considering a review of the list following concerns raised over some appointments and the absence of certain prominent party members.
However, Morka said he was not the appropriate official to respond to complaints from party members over those omitted from the council.
The controversy has also attracted criticism from opposition figures. Former New Nigeria Peoples Party presidential running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, questioned the involvement of senior government officials in the campaign structure.
Former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, also threatened legal action over the inclusion of Adedeji in the council.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Christopher Musa and Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, who were named on the campaign council, described their appointments as an additional responsibility, assuring that their respective security duties and ongoing reforms would continue.
