Tinubu Secures APC Backing for 2027; Opposition Unites to Counter

On Thursday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu as its presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, consolidating the party’s leadership and governors behind his second-term ambition.

The decision was announced at the APC National Policy and Development Summit in Abuja.

President Tinubu addressed party members, responding to criticisms of creating a one-party system by stating, “You don’t blame a people bailing out a sinking ship. I am expecting more to come; that is the game.”

Recent defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have bolstered the APC’s ranks, with prominent figures such as Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom publicly preparing to defect. Eno reportedly told his commissioners and political appointees to either join him in the APC or resign, emphasizing his admiration for Tinubu’s leadership style.

APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje highlighted the party’s strategic preparations for upcoming elections and lauded its victories in Kogi, Imo, Edo, and Ondo states. He described the PDP as “gasping for breath” amid leadership crises and defections.

Conversely, the PDP’s acting National Chairman and spokespersons rejected these assertions, maintaining that the party remains robust and capable of contesting the 2027 elections effectively.

In parallel, opposition leaders like Atiku Abubakar and ex-Governors Amaechi and Imoke are deliberating on forming a new political platform or merging with existing parties, with a decision expected by May 30.

Information Minister Mohammed Idris defended President Tinubu’s autonomy in decision-making, attributing the administration’s progress to bold reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including infrastructure projects and security improvements.