By
Otunba (Dr.) Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
In every democratic tradition, from Washington to Pretoria, the imperative of rewarding victory and elevating loyalty stands as a cornerstone of political sustainability. Political systems thrive when the principles of accountability and recognition are upheld, inspiring party members to remain committed and motivated. Yet, the All Progressives Congress (APC) finds itself in a troubling state where this foundational political truth has been inverted, leading to a reward structure that punishes those who stood firm in delivering electoral success. The implications of this misalignment threaten to destabilize the party’s electoral foundation as the 2027 elections approach.
In contemporary political discourse, the sentiments of loyalty, performance, and victory often intertwine, forming the bedrock of a committed political base. However, the stark reality remains that these elements can dissipate rapidly if not regarded with genuine appreciation. An examination of the political landscape reveals that many entities, such as the APC, risk alienating their core supporters by prioritizing opportunistic affiliations over authentic commitment. The recent initiative to establish the “Renewed Hope Ambassadors” appears to be a calculated move, yet it is evident that such instrumental relationships lack the organic loyalty that characterized the grassroots support seen in 2023.
The success of any political endeavor relies heavily on the unwavering dedication of its base, particularly in times of adversity. When individuals invest their blood and effort into a cause, they foster an indelible bond that cannot be replicated by opportunistic newcomers. If the APC persists in undervaluing this crucial aspect, the ramifications could be severe, leading to disillusionment and disengagement among its loyal supporters. A swift rectification of this misalignment is imperative; failure to acknowledge the authentic commitments of true believers may herald a troubling decline in political capital and stability.
The Tragic Paradox: Losing States Get the Spoils, Winning States Get the Scraps
The facts are stark and undeniable. In the 2023 presidential election, the states that delivered significant victories for President Tinubu Ogun, Ekiti, and Ondo are finding themselves at the back of the line when it comes to federal appointments and political influence. These states, which collectively contributed hundreds of thousands of votes to the APC cause, now grapple with minimal federal recognition. For instance, Ogun State, with its 341,554 votes; Ekiti State, with 201,494; and Ondo State, delivering 369,924 votes, worked tirelessly to secure their victories, often at great risk and under political duress. Their reward? A disheartening lack of visibility in the current administration.
In sharp contrast, the states that the APC lost during the elections, such as Lagos, Oyo, and Osun, are enjoying a disproportionately large share of political spoils and federal appointments despite their failure to deliver for the party. This reality creates a confusing narrative where the party seems to prioritize the non-contributors over those who fulfilled their electoral obligations. Such a reward structure is not only illogical but deeply demoralizing for loyal party members who feel betrayed and undervalued.
The Consequences of Rewarding Failure
The greatest threat posed by the APC’s current reward system lies in its potential to demotivate loyal supporters. Grassroots political engagement thrives on the core belief that hard work and loyalty will be recognized and rewarded. Yet, in the shifting landscape of the APC, many once-dedicated party members in Ogun, Ekiti, and Ondo are questioning the rationale behind their continued support. As they ask, “Why should we struggle again in 2027 when those who lost are the ones being rewarded?” the incentive to remain engaged and active diminishes drastically.
From ward chairmen to polling unit leaders, the message is strikingly clear: loyalty, performance, and victory appear to carry little weight in the party’s calculus, which can rapidly lead to political disillusionment and detachment. The world’s best political movements stand as exemplars of rewarding loyalty, but the APC’s current internal dynamics put it at risk of becoming a cautionary tale.
The Way Forward: A Call for a Reward System Reset
To avert looming discontent and potential electoral failures in 2027, a recalibration of the APC’s reward system is paramount. Implementing a performance-based structure anchored on the following three pillars can restore faith among the party’s base:
1. **Electoral Contribution Must Reflect in Appointments:** Those states that delivered victories must be prioritized in federal appointments and political influence.
2. **Grassroots Workers Should Be Recognized and Empowered:** The dedicated individuals who risked their political capital must not be sidelined; they must be celebrated and given roles commensurate with their contributions.
3. **States That Underperformed Must Earn Their Way Back:** No state should receive reward based solely on proximity or political noise; results must dictate recognition.
The Time for Change is Now
If the APC persists in its current trajectory of rewarding failure and neglecting its most loyal supporters, the 2027 election may become a referendum on injustice rather than a contest of governance and performance. The party must urgently recognize its most committed states Ogun, Ekiti, and Ondo and honor their contributions.
The lesson is clear: a political party that neglects its strongest states cannot anticipate enduring national success or support. It is time the APC values the loyalty of its members, ensuring that those who delivered victory are duly recognized and rewarded. Only then can the party hope to galvanize its forces for the challenges that lie ahead.
Otunba (Dr.) Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo, D.Sc (h.c) is National Chairman
Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG)
Date: Friday, 12th December, 2025
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +234 905 353 5322
Website: www.aatsg.org.ng
In this pivotal time, remember: Our choices echo through history. Will you choose to heal the wounds you’ve inflicted, or let apathy destroy what we’ve built? Loyalty to Nigeria, to our Elected President, and to the Truth demands action now before it’s too late.
