Nigeria: 2027 Elections: APC moves to exploit opposition disunity as parties struggle
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is poised to exploit the disunity within opposition parties as Nigeria inches toward the 2027 general elections. With barely 12 months to the polls, internal paralysis across major opposition platforms has slowed preparations, while the APC consolidates power and positions itself for another electoral cycle.
The APC has unveiled its schedule of activities, with its national convention slated for March 25-28, 2026. In contrast, opposition parties Labour Party (LP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) are struggling with internal crises, leadership disputes, and coordination efforts.
LP’s leadership crisis lingers, with INEC recognizing Senator Esther Nenadi-Usman’s acting national chairman role, while PDP is trapped in legal and leadership paralysis, with multiple disputes pending in court. ADC’s planned ward congresses have been postponed, and the party is setting up a policy and manifesto committee.
The opposition’s woes are worsened by defections to the APC, including sitting governors and prominent figures. Analysts say the defections are driven by uncertainty over credible primaries, access to campaign resources, and internal cohesion within opposition parties.
INEC has urged patience, distancing itself from unofficial election timelines and stating it will publish the official notice of election strictly in line with the Electoral Act.
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) warns opposition parties risk self-deception if they believe they can defeat the APC without a united front.
