Ola Akinwunmi
Nigeria’s political landscape erupted in controversy as the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) sharply criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for endorsing President Bola Tinubu as its sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election, just two years into his first term.
The opposition coalition labeled the move a “desperate bid for power” and a sign of panic within the APC amid mounting public discontent over economic hardship .
In a fiery statement issued by CUPP National Secretary Peter Ameh, the coalition accused the APC of disregarding the will of Nigerians, who are “grappling with severe economic challenges.” Ameh highlighted that the endorsement—spearheaded by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma and Kaduna Governor Uba Sani at an APC National Summit—reflects “deep unease” within the ruling party as inflation, fuel subsidy removals, and currency devaluation continue to strain households .
“This unprecedented move signals the APC’s disconnect from the masses and an attempt to undermine democracy,” Ameh declared, emphasizing that Tinubu’s adoption “does not reflect the will of the Nigerian people” . He warned that the 2023 elections, marred by allegations of rigging, were a “precursor” to a stronger collective resolve to protect votes in 2027 .
The APC, however, framed the endorsement as a strategic step to ensure continuity. At a summit marking Tinubu’s two-year anniversary, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje hailed the president’s economic reforms, including subsidy cuts and exchange rate liberalization, which have drawn praise from international bodies like the IMF . Ganduje asserted that the party’s “Renewed Hope” agenda required Tinubu’s leadership to achieve long-term goals, dismissing opposition claims as “hallucinations” .
President Tinubu, addressing supporters, welcomed defections from rival parties and framed the APC’s dominance as a reflection of Nigeria’s constitutional freedoms. “You don’t blame people bailing out of a sinking ship,” he said, referencing recent high-profile defections, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, who is reportedly set to join the APC .
The CUPP’s criticism comes amid a fractured opposition. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party are scrambling to unite behind a strong candidate, with talks ongoing between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi’s camps . Meanwhile, the APC has capitalized on defections, reducing the PDP’s governorship strongholds from 14 to 10 states .
Public sentiment remains divided. While APC loyalists tout Tinubu’s reforms as necessary for long-term growth, critics argue they’ve exacerbated poverty. Social media reactions ranged from skepticism about Tinubu’s fitness for office in 2027 to calls for opposition unity .
CUPP’s Ameh urged Nigerians to “remain vigilant” ahead of 2027, framing the election as a “defining moment” for democracy. “The Nigerian electorate will not be silenced,” he vowed .
