Ola Akinwunmi
President Bola Tinubu declared on Thursday that he anticipates a surge of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, framing the trend as a natural outcome of Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
Speaking at the APC’s Renewed Hope Agenda Summit in Abuja, Tinubu dismissed concerns that the influx could push Nigeria toward a one-party state, asserting that political realignment reflects constitutional freedoms rather than democratic erosion .
In a bold metaphor, Tinubu likened opposition parties to a “sinking ship” and welcomed defectors seeking a “life jacket” in the APC. “You don’t blame people for leaving a sinking ship. I’m expecting more to come—that’s the game,” he said, emphasizing Nigerians’ constitutional right to freedom of association . His remarks came as the APC solidified internal support, with all 22 APC governors, the National Assembly leadership, and the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) unanimously endorsing him as their sole candidate for 2027 .
Tinubu defended his administration’s contentious economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of foreign exchange rates, which he credited with attracting foreign investment and curbing corruption. “Our reforms are working,” he declared, citing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) recovery of “over 750 houses from one person” as evidence of progress . While acknowledging the “tough decisions” that sparked widespread cost-of-living crises, he assured Nigerians that the sacrifices would yield long-term gains, including job creation and industrialization.
The summit saw a show of force from APC stalwarts. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, chair of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, moved a motion endorsing Tinubu for 2027, which Kaduna Governor Uba Sani seconded. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas echoed the sentiment, pledging legislative backing for Tinubu’s re-election bid . APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje dismissed criticism of the early endorsement, urging members to “reject internal sabotage” and rally behind Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda .
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) lambasted the APC’s move as a “desperate bid for power,” arguing that it ignores Nigerians’ economic suffering. CUPP Secretary Peter Ameh warned that the endorsement “signals deep unease within the APC” and risks undermining democratic accountability . Labour Party spokesman Tanko Yinusa predicted internal turmoil for the APC, citing defectors’ self-interest and likening the situation to former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s political downfall .
Political analysts offered mixed views. Professor Hassan Saliu noted that defections reflect Nigeria’s “profit-driven” political landscape but cautioned against exacerbating poverty and tension.
Others, like strategist Anthony Kila, praised Tinubu’s tactical maneuvering, comparing his consolidation efforts to the 2015 coalition that ousted the PDP . Meanwhile, critics like Dr. Kabiru Sufi warned that early campaigning distracts from governance, with citizens grappling with inflation and insecurity .
As Tinubu positions the APC for 2027, the opposition faces an uphill battle to unify against the ruling party’s momentum. With two years until the election, the administration’s ability to alleviate economic hardship may determine whether defections translate into votes—or fuel a backlash from disillusioned voters. For now, Tinubu’s message is clear: the APC’s ship is sailing full speed ahead, and detractors are welcome to jump aboard .