By John Umeh
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is positioning itself as the dominant force ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Here are the key reasons why the APC is increasingly becoming the party to beat:
1. Incumbency Advantage
As the ruling party at the federal level, the APC holds the presidency and a majority in the National Assembly. This gives it control over national narratives, policy direction, federal appointments, and access to state resources—all of which can be leveraged to consolidate power and influence voter perception.
2. Expanding Political Network Across States
The APC currently governs the majority of Nigeria’s 36 states. This widespread presence gives the party a deep grassroots network, political machinery, and the capacity to mobilize support nationwide. In Nigerian politics, state governors are influential players during elections, and the APC’s grip on governorships enhances its campaign capacity for 2027.
3. Weak and Divided Opposition
Opposition parties like the PDP, Labour Party, and others have struggled with internal divisions, inconsistent messaging, and lack of clear ideological alternatives. Infighting, defections, and lack of coordinated strategy among opposition forces have prevented them from presenting a united front. This gives the APC room to operate without facing a credible nationwide challenge—for now.
4. Strategic Political Alliances
The APC has proven adept at absorbing defectors from other parties and forming alliances that consolidate its base. Many high-profile politicians from the PDP and other opposition groups have joined the APC, either for political survival or influence, boosting the party’s structure and reducing the strength of rivals.
5. Ethno-Religious and Regional Balancing
The APC has used Nigeria’s sensitive ethno-religious and regional dynamics to its advantage. By balancing tickets (e.g., north-south, Christian-Muslim), it has managed to appeal across multiple demographics—sometimes more effectively than opposition parties that struggle to do the same without alienating key blocs.
6. Institutional Influence
Having control of major institutions like INEC oversight, security agencies, and economic policy frameworks provides the APC with strategic leverage. While this does not guarantee electoral manipulation, it certainly helps in shaping the environment under which elections are conducted.
7. Public Perception Management
Despite economic challenges and criticisms of the current administration, the APC has maintained a strong media presence and narrative framing—projecting reforms, continuity, and stability as reasons for its continued leadership. The party portrays itself as the only “realistic” option capable of governing a complex country like Nigeria.
APC’s Momentum Going Into 2027
Unless the opposition regroups, forms coalitions, and develops a compelling, unified vision that resonates across regions and demographics, the APC is well-positioned to retain power in 2027. Its growing control of political structures, strategic alliances, and national presence makes it the party to beat—but not necessarily unbeatable.
