The battle for Nigeria’s 2027 elections is intensifying, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) engaging in a heated exchange over the recent wave of defections from opposition parties to the ruling APC. The APC claims that the defections are a result of President Bola Tinubu’s effective leadership and reform agenda, while the ADC alleges that the ruling party is using coercion to destabilize the opposition.
According to Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), the defections are a testament to the president’s good work, citing clear performance indicators from international organizations. Arodiogbu dismissed allegations of arm-twisting, questioning how the APC could possibly coerce senators and governors when they receive their monthly revenue from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) without any interference. He emphasized that those joining the APC are aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which promises a brighter future for Nigeria. The APC is confident of gaining more members, with its national chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, vowing to unite the party and attract fresh supporters
On the other hand, Bolaji Abdullahi, interim National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, insists that electoral success is not determined by the number of defecting governors or lawmakers. He cited the example of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s loss in 2015, despite having a large number of governors. Abdullahi alleged that the APC is undermining opposition leaders, withholding allocations, and intimidating them. However, he expressed confidence that the ADC is gaining traction and will play a decisive role in the 2027 general elections, with several senators and governors already part of their coalition.
The ADC’s claims are supported by some analysts who believe that the APC’s aggressive recruitment drive may not necessarily translate to electoral success. Meanwhile, the APC is pushing ahead with its plans, having launched a nationwide mass membership registration to boost President Tinubu’s re-election chances. The party has set ambitious targets, with the North Central APC Forum promising to deliver six million votes for Tinubu’s re-election
As the 2027 elections approach, the political landscape is expected to become increasingly heated, with both sides gearing up for a fierce contest. The APC’s confidence in its numbers and organizational strength will be put to the test, while the ADC’s ability to mobilize support and present a credible alternative will be crucial in determining the outcome of the elections.
