Internal Crises Threaten APC’s Unity Ahead of 2027 General Elections
As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is grappling with significant internal challenges that threaten its cohesion and electoral prospects. With unresolved disputes in several key states, critics warn that the party risks entering the polls divided and weakened if decisive measures are not implemented.
Deepening Crises Across Key States
In Delta State, a leadership tussle has left the party in turmoil. The absence of substantive chairman Omeni Sobotie, who is on medical leave, has led to the emergence of two parallel acting chairmen. Paulinus Akpeki from Delta Central and Francis Obigbor from Delta North both claim leadership, jeopardizing reconciliation efforts and destabilizing the party’s structure in the state.
Bayelsa State continues to reel from unresolved issues tied to its last ward and state congresses. Court rulings nullifying the congresses, alongside the suspensions of key figures like Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the minister of state for petroleum, and former governorship candidate Chief David Lyon, have left the party deeply fractured.
In Osun State, a long-standing rivalry between former Governor Rauf Aregbesola and his successor Adegboyega Oyetola has divided the APC into two factions. Aregbesola’s Omoluabi Progressives operate independently, while Oyetola maintains control over the official party structure. The lack of unity could undermine the party’s strength in the state.
Benue State recently witnessed a public display of division during the burial of Second Republic minister Paul Unongo. A growing rift between Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and Governor Hyacinth Alia has escalated tensions within the party.
In Adamawa, the aftermath of the controversial 2023 congress continues to haunt the APC. Factions loyal to various leaders remain at odds, and efforts by an eight-member reconciliation committee led by Senator Muhammed Mana have so far failed to heal the fractures.
Rivers State is no exception, with the APC split between factions loyal to former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and supporters of Tony Okocha. The reinstatement of Emeka Beke as chairman has further intensified the crisis, with court rulings and contested congresses compounding the divisions.
Implications for the 2027 Elections
These disputes pose significant challenges to the APC’s ability to present a united front in the upcoming elections. Analysts caution that unless the party resolves these issues promptly, it could struggle to retain its dominance on the national stage.
Speaking on the matter, APC National Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim expressed optimism, stating, “The APC does not shy away from responsibilities and is actively pursuing lasting solutions.”
A Call for Reconciliation
With time running out before the next electoral cycle, the APC faces an uphill battle to mend fences and restore unity across its ranks. The success of the party’s reconciliation efforts will not only determine its performance in the 2027 elections but also its long-term credibility as Nigeria’s ruling party.
As the APC seeks to overcome these internal hurdles, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on how the party navigates these complex challenges in the months ahead.
