In a decisive move to centralize public communication, the APC restricted campaign spokespersons to just three designated leaders ahead of upcoming political engagements. The ruling party announced that only authorized senior figures will handle broadcast appearances and press statements.
Under the revised structure, Director-General Abdulaziz Yari, Solid Minerals Minister Dele Alake, and Information Minister Mohammed Idris are the sole officials cleared to speak for the campaign council.
Centralized Media Directive from Presidential Villa
The Chief of Staff to the President and Deputy Director-General of the council, Femi Gbajabiamila, released the official directive in Abuja on Wednesday. He stated that the restructuring aims to foster a more disciplined and cohesive media strategy.
The leadership confirmed that the APC has restricted campaign spokespersons to maintain disciplined and cohesive public messaging across broadcast networks. The council instructed television and radio stations nationwide to recognize only the three designated officials for campaign interviews.
Broadcasters were advised that any additional representatives will be formally assigned on a case-by-case basis through official channels.
Previous Spokespersons Merged into General Directorate
The decision marks a major shift from the broader media framework unveiled in August. Several commentators and party figures previously designated as spokespersons have now seen their individual mandates rescinded.
Following this development, the party dissolved all previously appointed media representatives into general committee members. These individuals will now operate as internal members within the Directorate of Media and Strategic Communications rather than public-facing mouthpieces.
Party insiders noted the adjustment eliminates conflicting public statements and ensures that official campaign communications align strictly with executive leadership.
Scrutiny Following Viral Live Broadcast Incident
Party observers noted that the speed at which the APC restricts campaign spokespersons followed a widely circulated live broadcast incident. On Tuesday night, an authorized campaign spokesperson, Alwan Hassan, appeared on a national television program to discuss security and administrative achievements.
During the live interview, Hassan urged the program anchor to dial the national 112 emergency toll-free line to demonstrate government responsiveness. The call repeatedly failed to connect on live air, prompting widespread public commentary and embarrassment for party strategists.
While the official statement did not mention the television segment directly, political analysts viewed the rapid consolidation as an effort to avoid further communications missteps.
Broader Strategy for Campaign Communications
The three designated spokesmen bring seasoned political and communications experience to the front lines. Yari, a former governor and senator, provides legislative and grassroots backing from the north.
Alake has served as a longtime communications strategist for President Bola Tinubu, while Idris heads the federal government's information machinery.
The council reiterated that centralized messaging will remain standard protocol throughout upcoming electoral activities.
