A wave of mass defections to APC is shaking Nigeria’s political landscape as prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and the Labour Party (LP) abandon their platforms for the ruling All Progressives Congress.
According to a 9am News report, the latest shake-up involves Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor and 2023 PDP Vice Presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa, and top officials of the PDP in Delta, all declaring allegiance to the APC. The announcement followed a six-hour closed-door meeting in Asaba and was made public by Senator James Manager.
Delta State Commissioner for Information, Aniagwu Charles, stated, “We cannot continue to be in a sinking boat. The decision to join the APC was necessary to protect development gains and ensure Delta’s progress continues uninterrupted.”
Similarly, in Kano South, Senator Kawu Sumaila confirmed his departure from the NNPP, citing his dedication to constituents. “All politics is local,” he noted, explaining his move to the APC as a commitment to their welfare.
More figures have followed suit. Oluwole Oke, representing Osun’s Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency, resigned from the PDP, citing internal divisions. Senator Neda Imasuen of the Labour Party is also rumored to be on the verge of defecting to the APC, bolstered by his recent alignment with key APC leaders in Edo State.
This trend isn’t isolated. From former Senate President Pius Anyim to ex-Edo Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, over 300 PDP members have switched parties since February 2024. The 9am News report references earlier defections by notable figures like Senators Shehu Sani, Ned Nwoko, and various NNPP lawmakers, pointing to an accelerating realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda
The APC attributes this influx to the perceived success of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda. APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka welcomed the newcomers, stating, “Their decision reflects growing confidence in the President’s leadership. With Delta now aligned, the APC is better positioned to deliver results.”
However, the opposition has fired back. PDP, NNPP, and CUPP leaders accuse the APC-led federal government of using state apparatus like the EFCC and ICPC to intimidate opposition figures into defecting. PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor said, “This isn’t democracy. It’s coercion masked as political alignment.”
NNPP National Publicity Secretary Ladipo Johnson echoed the sentiment, claiming many defections stem from self-preservation rather than national interest. “These moves are about protecting personal ambitions, not serving Nigerians,” he asserted.
CUPP’s National Secretary, Peter Ahmeh, condemned the trend as disgraceful, expressing confidence in an opposition coalition ahead of 2027. “These defectors are negotiating their way into safety. But the people will speak at the polls. A strong alliance is coming.”
In response, APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary Duro Meseko dismissed the allegations. “People are joining willingly because they see progress. Exchange rates are stabilizing, infrastructure is improving, and our economic strategy is paying off.”
Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim also emphasized that the APC provides a level playing field. “This isn’t about intimidation. People see value in our governance, and they’re aligning with progress,” he said.
As the 2027 elections approach, speculation is rife about more high-profile defections. Insiders hint that governors of Adamawa, Taraba, and Akwa Ibom, as well as NNPP’s National Leader Rabiu Kwankwaso, could soon align with the APC.
This surge in defections has changed the political dynamics across the country, with analysts predicting a realignment that could reshape the 2027 elections. Whether it is driven by ideology, ambition, or survival, the ongoing shift is undeniably historic.
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