Ex-SGF challenges APC merger narrative at Garba Shehu's memoir launch
Immediate past Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, has stirred political debate by asserting that President Bola Tinubu was not pivotal to Muhammadu Buhari’s 2015 presidential victory, insisting that Buhari’s support base alone delivered the majority of the votes that secured his win.
Speaking at the launch of Garba Shehu’s memoir, “According to the President: Lessons from a Presidential Spokesperson’s Experience,” held in Abuja, Mustapha broke down the vote pattern from the 2015 election, stating that Buhari brought 12.2 million votes independently, while the APC coalition contributed only 3.2 million, making up the total 15.4 million votes.
“Basically, what we brought to the table, the other parties that were in the merger, in addition to Buhari’s 12.2 million votes, was 3.2 million votes,” Mustapha declared, undermining long-standing narratives that credited Tinubu and the APC coalition with delivering Buhari’s historic win.
The comment challenges a key talking point within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), where President Tinubu has often been viewed as a kingmaker figure in the party’s 2015 electoral success.
Tinubu’s Camp Reacts
Representing President Tinubu at the event, current SGF Senator George Akume adopted a more conciliatory tone, praising Buhari’s legacy and stating that nation-building is a “relay” between successive administrations.
“The effort of one administration laid the foundation for the next,” Akume said, adding that Tinubu’s government was committed to continuing Buhari’s reforms.
Political Implications
Mustapha’s remarks come at a politically sensitive time, as power blocs within the APC begin posturing ahead of the 2027 elections. Analysts say the statement could rekindle debates over who holds true political capital within the party — Buhari’s northern base or Tinubu’s southwestern machine.
Observers believe Mustapha’s claims may resonate strongly in the North, where Buhari continues to enjoy widespread support, potentially challenging Tinubu’s hold over the APC narrative.
Notable Attendees
The memoir launch drew top political figures, including former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and ex-presidential media aide Femi Adesina.
Shehu’s book chronicles his experience as Buhari’s spokesperson and offers behind-the-scenes insights into the administration’s communication strategies. The memoir also touches on media relations, leadership perception, and legacy framing — themes now at the center of this unfolding political controversy.
As conversations around political legacies and electoral contributions intensify, Mustapha’s remarks have added a fresh layer of tension to an already fragmented ruling party — one that must now balance historical claims with future ambitions.