Basiru Dismisses Sowore’s Political Credibility, Calls Him a Skit Maker Over Request to Use Aso Villa for Campaign Event

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, has questioned the political credibility of African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, following the party’s request to use the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, Abuja, for a campaign-related event ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Basiru described Sowore as a “skit maker” during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, arguing that the AAC candidate should demonstrate his electoral strength by winning a legislative seat before seeking broader political recognition.

The comments followed a formal request by the AAC to President Bola Tinubu for permission to inaugurate its Presidential Campaign Council at the Presidential Villa on November 11, 2026.

In a letter dated October 21, 2026, and signed by the party’s National Secretary, Oshiokhue Philip Ikpeminoghena, the AAC also requested feeding and logistical support for about 5,000 people expected to attend the proposed event.

The party said its request was based on the principles of multiparty democracy, political inclusiveness and equal treatment of political parties. It argued that granting the request would demonstrate the government’s commitment to fairness, irrespective of party affiliation.

Reacting to the development, Basiru questioned Sowore’s electoral standing and suggested that the activist should first secure victory in a State House of Assembly election before expecting Nigerians to take his presidential ambition seriously.

The APC national secretary also referred to the AAC’s performance in the 2023 general elections, making claims about the party’s vote tally to support his criticism. His remarks reflected his assessment of the party’s electoral strength.

The AAC’s request has raised questions about the use of official government facilities for partisan political activities and whether opposition parties should have access to such facilities under comparable conditions.

While the party maintains that its appeal is consistent with democratic inclusiveness, approval of the request would depend on the Presidency’s decision and applicable security, administrative and protocol requirements.

As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, the exchange highlights the political differences between the ruling APC and opposition parties seeking to challenge its position at the federal level.

The Presidency’s decision on the AAC’s request had not been confirmed in the reports available at the time of writing.