National News – In Abuja on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, lawmaker James Faleke collected the All Progressives Congress (APC) expression of interest and nomination forms on behalf of President Bola Tinubu.

The move marks an early step toward the 2027 presidential election.The process took place at the APC national secretariat.

Party officials led by National Organising Secretary Suleiman Argungu formally presented the forms.

Faleke is a key figure in the Tinubu Support Group.

His role is seen as part of a wider mobilisation structure within the ruling party.

The forms reportedly cost N100 million. The payment and collection signal the start of Tinubu’s re-election campaign structure.Reactions have been divided.

Supporters say it shows strong organisation and early preparedness.

Critics argue it reflects an unusually early campaign buildup.

Some political observers believe the development could heighten political competition.

They also warn it may increase tension within party ranks and across opposition groups.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections.

Party primaries will run from April to May 2026.Campaigns are expected to begin in August 2026 for federal elections.

State-level campaigns will follow in September.

In Abuja and Lagos, public reaction has been mixed. Some residents see it as routine political preparation.

Others express concern over rising political spending and focus shifting away from governance.

Analysts say Nigeria’s political atmosphere is already heating up ahead of 2027.

They note that early mobilisation could shape alliances and party strategy.

Opposition parties are also expected to respond with their own early positioning.

This could intensify competition in the months ahead.

The development signals the beginning of a long and strategic election cycle. Political actors are now clearly moving into campaign mode.