APC
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is experiencing internal tensions as the 2027 general elections approach, with “kingmakers” within the party working to address various state-level disputes and uprisings to maintain party cohesion. These tensions are attributed to leadership crises, factional battles, and defections and realignment within the party.
The recent resignation of former National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje has led to a scramble for the position, with different blocs within the party vying for control. Factional tensions are persisting in some chapters, such as Benue, Rivers, and Lagos. In Benue, for instance, the party is factionalized between Governor Hyacinth Alia and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
The APC has welcomed a wave of defections from opposition parties, significantly consolidating its influence in some state legislatures, such as in Edo State. However, this has created internal competition for tickets and influence, further deepening the complexity of internal negotiations.
To mitigate these tensions, influential members of the party, referred to as “kingmakers,” have been reaching out to help resolve issues across state chapters. They are brokering peace and working to ensure the party operates under a peaceful atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections.
Some notable APC leaders have expressed confidence that the party will deliver in the 2027 elections, with Governor Hope Uzodinma endorsing President Tinubu for a second term. However, political analysts suggest that the party’s unity is heavily dependent on it remaining in power, and internal implosions could occur ahead of the elections.
The APC’s challenges are further compounded by emerging opposition coalitions and criticisms from notable figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who have described the APC as “incompetent, clannish, and dangerous to Nigeria’s future.
