Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has dismissed reports that the party withdrew its 2027 presidential campaign council list.
TheNewsGuru reports that the list, which was unveiled last week, sparked controversy after some political stakeholders criticised the inclusion of individuals they described as persons of questionable character.
President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima were named chairman and vice-chairman of the council, respectively.
APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, was also listed as vice-chairman, while former Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari, was appointed Director-General.
Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, was named secretary.
Other members listed include former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu; former Chairperson of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Ngozi Olejeme; Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji; and Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Taminu Yakubu.
Reports claimed that the controversy surrounding the list prompted President Tinubu to order a review of its composition, citing concerns that some inclusions could send the wrong signals.
Among the issues reportedly raised were the inclusion of individuals facing corruption allegations, the omission of some experienced party members and errors in the compilation of the list.
Sources also reportedly said the council’s inauguration date had yet to be announced because the list was still being fine-tuned.
However, speaking on Tuesday morning, Morka dismissed the reports as rumours, stressing that any changes to the list would be formally communicated.
“Rumours are not news. When people are carrying rumours, that is not news. There is fake news, and there is real news,” Morka 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.”