Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura has formally congratulated the New National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof Nentawe Yilwatda for his appointment and entire leadership of the party, describing it as reflecting the collective wisdom of the National Executive Committee and the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The former Nasarawa governor, who was a strong contender for the party’s top position before the NEC’s decisive vote, issued a full throated endorsement of the NEC’s decision in a statement he personally signed on Sunday, demonstrating his characteristic party first philosophy.
“As a committed and loyal member of our party, I embrace this decision not only with optimism but with unwavering commitment to the ideals upon which the APC was built: discipline, equity and nation first leadership,” Al-Makura stated.
Spear News reports that Al-Makura had previously been in contention for the APC’s national chairmanship position before the party’s hierarchy settled on the current leadership.
Despite stepping aside in deference to the party’s resolution, his influence within the APC remains significant, particularly being a strong influence in the late President Buhari’s camp in the APC and of course, his recent appointment as Chairman of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) just weeks before the NEC’s decisive meeting
The senator expressed particular confidence in the new leadership’s capabilities, saying: “I stand in resolute support of your appointment, confident in your ability to guide our party through this new chapter with courage, inclusivity and clarity of purpose.”
His statement notably emphasised the need for party unity following the leadership transition, calling it “a time for healing, for reconnecting with the grassroots and promoting the APC as a beacon of democratic maturity and national unity.”
Al-Makura, known for his behind-the-scenes political strength, offered what appeared to be both support and subtle counsel to the new leadership:
“I offer myself as always – ever willing to lend my support to the cause of party cohesion, general inclusion and strategic progress.” He added what some observers may interpret as gentle guidance for the incoming team: “As you (Nentawe) lead, may you prioritise empathy over immense, but so too is the opportunity to inspire confidence, promote cohesion.”
The senator closed with formal congratulations, stating: “Once again, accept my hearty congratulations and assurances of my highest consideration”
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