President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been officially endorsed as the All Progressives Congress (APC) sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election, sparking mixed reactions across the political spectrum. The endorsement, led by the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) and supported by the APC caucus in the National Assembly, took place at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Imo State Governor and PGF Chairman Hope Uzodimma moved the motion, which was seconded by Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani. The announcement was met with a standing ovation. Tinubu, speaking at the APC National Summit held concurrently, said the ruling party remains the dominant platform representing the aspirations of Nigerians. He forecasted a wave of defections from opposition parties, calling it a natural realignment.
“You don’t blame a people bailing out of a sinking ship,” Tinubu said. “I’m expecting more to come. That is the game.”
However, critics have warned that the endorsement and ongoing defections may cause internal instability. Tanko Yinusa, spokesman for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, said the move could trigger implosion within the APC. He pointed to former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s experience, where internal endorsements failed to secure broader support.
Chief Peter Ameh of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) called the endorsement a desperate bid to hold on to power. “This move reflects fear of rejection by a suffering electorate enduring unprecedented economic hardship,” he stated. He also accused APC leaders of attempting to pre-empt the 2027 elections, warning that such actions could damage public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.
Meanwhile, the APC’s National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, praised Tinubu’s administration for transforming the party from a mere electoral force into a governing institution. He cited APC’s control of 22 states, dominance in the National Assembly, and a newly established Progressive Institute aimed at training and policy development.
Ganduje criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its internal crises and defections, arguing that APC’s continued growth is based on strategic leadership and national appeal. He noted ongoing efforts to develop a digital membership database to promote transparency and inclusivity.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also threw his weight behind Tinubu, urging party leaders to turn their words into electoral results in 2027. He highlighted Tinubu’s economic reforms and praised his political acumen, citing commendations from the International Monetary Fund. Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas seconded Akpabio’s motion for Tinubu’s unopposed candidacy, marking a rare moment of unity among APC lawmakers.
Former Senate Minority Leader Olorunnimbe Mamora dismissed concerns about defections destabilising the APC. He said political realignments are a standard pre-election practice. Political economist Professor Anthony Kila echoed this sentiment, saying Tinubu is leveraging a fragmented opposition and his strategic understanding of power.
Amid these developments, campaign posters for Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde have emerged in Kano, sparking speculation about his presidential ambition. The Nigeria Youth Awareness Group Makinde 2027 claimed responsibility, vowing to expand the campaign across Northern and Southern Nigeria. The group highlighted Makinde’s governance record in Oyo as a basis for national leadership.
In contrast, the Atiku Abubakar-led opposition coalition denied reports that it has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform for 2027. Coalition member Malam Salihu Lukman described the claims as false and blamed mischief makers for attempting to sow discord. He clarified that while discussions are ongoing, no political platform has been finalised.
On a separate note, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called for reforms in higher education to align with entrepreneurial needs. Speaking at the launch of the Centre for African Social and Economic Transformation (CASET) in the UK, he urged African leaders to harness the continent’s youthful population for innovation and growth. Sanwo-Olu pledged Lagos’ support to CASET’s mission and called on academics, policymakers, and investors to drive change through collaboration.
Despite the political momentum, early campaigning has drawn criticism. In Rivers State, Tinubu posters appeared along major roads, prompting backlash from residents and analysts. Critics argue that such premature politicking distracts from governance and deepens socioeconomic issues.
Dr Obinna Wordi of the University of Port Harcourt described the trend as a reflection of selfish ambitions, warning that it could result in poor leadership. Policy analyst Dr Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface added that early campaigns hinder economic progress and weaken democratic institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He urged INEC to enforce the Electoral Act and penalise those involved in premature electioneering.
As the political scene heats up, stakeholders warn that the focus should remain on delivering good governance and upholding democratic values. The public is being urged to stay vigilant, demand accountability, and prioritise leaders committed to national development.
