Former NERC Chair Sam Amadi Warns 16-Year APC Rule Would Be Foolishness
Former Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) chairman Sam Amadi criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) for seeking to extend its rule to 16 consecutive years—eight under former President Muhammadu Buhari and potentially another eight under President Bola Tinubu. In a post on X on Monday, Amadi called the prospect "large-scale foolishness" or a reflection of what he described as a "terrible election political economy," echoing a hint from The Economist. He stated, "The party that gave us Buhari for eight years wants to give us Tinubu for eight years."
This matters because the APC's push for continued dominance comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general election. Amadi's warning highlights concerns about democratic backsliding, voter fatigue, and the health of Nigeria's political competition. If the APC succeeds, it would mark an unprecedented period of one-party rule since the return to civilian governance in 1999, raising questions about accountability, policy innovation, and the inclusiveness of the political process.
Readers should consider what a 16-year APC tenure could mean for Nigeria's democratic norms and their own civic engagement. As the 2027 election approaches, monitoring party primaries, evaluating alternative candidates, and reflecting on whether extended single-party rule serves national interests become essential steps. The debate invites citizens to weigh stability against the need for political renewal and to decide what kind of electoral outcome they want to support.