The Digest:
All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda has stated that political appointments after the 2027 general elections will be reserved strictly for party loyalists, not technocrats or professionals. Yilwatda made the declaration in Abuja, asserting that governance is inherently political and that appointees must actively participate in grassroots mobilisation and party activities. He emphasised there is “nothing like technocrats” in political appointments and warned that appointees unwilling to engage politically should remain as consultants. The statement has sparked debate, with analysts warning it could undermine merit-based governance and institutional capacity.
Key Points:
- The policy signals a shift toward prioritising political loyalty over professional expertise in federal appointments.
- It could affect senior officials currently viewed as technocrats, such as Communications Minister Bosun Tijjani and NCC Executive Vice Chairman Wada Maida.
- The stance may deepen factionalism within the APC and alienate professionals who contribute to governance without strong partisan affiliation.
- It contrasts with the PDP’s stated approach of blending technocrats and politicians based on competence.
- Analysts warn that sidelining technocrats risks weakening institutional integrity, evidence-based policymaking, and public trust.
Sources: Daily Trust
