APC Announces Restrictions On Presidential Campaign Spokespersons

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council has restructured its media and communications architecture, restricting official speaking privileges to just three designated officials.

Under the revised directive, only the council’s Director-General, Abdulaziz Yari; the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake; and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, are authorised to speak publicly on behalf of the campaign.

The Chief of Staff to the President and Deputy Director-General (Administration) of the campaign council, Femi Gbajabiamila, announced the reorganization in a statement issued on Wednesday.

According to Gbajabiamila, the restructuring is designed to foster “more cohesive, disciplined, and effective public engagement” ahead of the 2027 polls.

Under the new arrangement:

• Reclassification of Former Spokespersons: All individuals previously unveiled as campaign spokespersons will now serve strictly as members of the Directorate of Media and Strategic Communications rather than official voices of the campaign.
• Directive to Broadcasters: The campaign council instructed radio and television stations across the country to take note of the updated policy and ensure strict compliance.
• Controlled Media Appearances: Appropriate representatives will be specifically delegated to appear on broadcast and media platforms only when required.

The adjustment marks the latest evolution in the campaign’s communications setup since its initial inauguration on August 22, when former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari was named Director-General, Dele Alake was appointed lead spokesperson alongside four others, and Mohammed Idris was named coordinating director for media and strategic communications.

Although the council had previously expanded its media roster in October to bring in figures such as Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, House of Representatives member Abdulmumin Jibrin, Lere Olayinka, and Segun Sowunmi, the latest order draws a firm line between general membership of the media directorate and the authority to issue official campaign statements.