Tinubu Mistakenly Calls Himself ‘Governor’ at APC Campaign Council Inauguration

President Bola Tinubu appeared to make a verbal slip on Wednesday when he referred to himself as “Governor Bola Tinubu” during the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 general election.

The incident occurred at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja as Tinubu acknowledged party leaders and members of the newly inaugurated council.

While speaking about the role of the council’s director-general, the president said the campaign structure would “bring Governor Bola Tinubu back for second time,” apparently using his former title instead of his current position as president.

Tinubu served two terms as governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 before becoming president in May 2023. He is seeking another four-year term in the 2027 presidential election.

The remark drew attention because it came at an event formally launching the ruling party’s campaign structure for the next election. The council is expected to coordinate mobilisation, messaging and campaign activities across the country.

Tinubu chairs the council, while Vice-President Kashim Shettima serves as vice-chairman. Former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari was named director-general.

Other members include APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and presidential Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila.

The council also includes politicians outside the APC, among them Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party.

Their participation comes amid political realignments and efforts by parties to build alliances ahead of the 2027 polls.

The presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections are slated for February 6, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission.

The inauguration marks another step in the APC’s preparations for the election as Tinubu seeks a second term.