2027: Concerns Grow As APC Tightens Grip On Nigeria

2027: Concerns Grow As APC Tightens Grip On Nigeria

While the ruling party denies trying to turn Nigeria into a "one-party state," recent events suggest the All Progressives Congress (APC) is becoming more dominant than ever ahead of the 2027 elections.

Following a massive wave of defections, the APC now controls 31 out of 36 states. This leaves the opposition with very little ground, raising fears that the country’s democracy is losing its balance.

The most recent move came from Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, who officially dumped the PDP for the APC on Monday. He claimed the move was for "political stability," but he is just one of many.

 APC has 31 States (Including recent additions like Delta, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Plateau) while PDP has Only 2 States (Oyo and Bauchi). Others are LP (Abia), APGA (Anambra), and Accord Party (Osun).

It’s not just the Governors. In the National Assembly, the APC now holds a two-thirds majority.

 The Senate is roughly 80 out of 109 seats and the House of Reps 241 seats.

Since 2023, over 140 top federal and state politicians have joined the ruling party.

The massive shift has sparked a heated debate among political leaders.

The Pro-APC Supporters like Dayo Adeyeye and Bankole Oluwajana argue that these defections show President Tinubu’s "political brilliance" and the freedom of association. They believe the North and South remain loyal to the President’s vision.

According to the view from Middle Belt,  Birtus Pogu (Middle Belt Forum) says the number of governors doesn't matter as much as the Electoral Act. He insists that if election results are sent electronically in real-time, the people's will not the party's size will decide 2027.

Ralph Nwosu of the ADC (The Opposition View) says Nigerians are "apprehensive" about a one-party system. He claims that despite the many governors joining APC, the majority of "aggrieved Nigerians" will have the final say at the polls.

As the political landscape shifts, the lack of a strong opposition could mean fewer choices for voters. With the APC controlling almost all geopolitical zones, the road to 2027 is looking increasingly one-sided, leaving many to wonder if Nigeria’s multi-party democracy can survive the pressure.