Governors Don’t Win Elections, People Do, Aregbesola Tells APC
Former Minister of Interior and ex-Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, has cautioned the All Progressives Congress against relying on governors to deliver electoral victories, insisting that elections are won by the people, not political officeholders.
Aregbesola gave the warning while addressing party members at a stakeholders’ meeting, where he reflected on the outcome of the 2023 general elections and the lessons the ruling party must learn ahead of 2027.
According to him, the belief that governors automatically determine election results has been proven wrong, stressing that popular support and credibility among the electorate remain the most decisive factors in any democratic contest.
“Governors don’t win elections; the people do,” Aregbesola said. “The events of 2023 clearly showed that political power does not guarantee victory if the people are not genuinely convinced.”
He urged the APC leadership to focus on internal democracy, good governance, and inclusive decision-making rather than political coercion or imposition, warning that failure to do so could weaken the party’s chances in future elections.
The former minister emphasised the need for transparent primaries and fair electoral processes, noting that credibility within the party would translate into acceptance by the wider electorate.
Aregbesola also advised party leaders to reconnect with ordinary Nigerians by addressing pressing issues such as insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and rising cost of living, saying voters are now more politically conscious and less susceptible to political pressure.
“As we approach 2027, the APC must earn the trust of Nigerians again through performance, justice, and fairness. Power belongs to the people, and it is only the people who can give legitimacy through the ballot,” he added.
His remarks come amid ongoing debates within the APC over internal cohesion, leadership influence, and strategies for retaining power in the next general elections.
