The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is intensifying efforts to bring at least five state governors into its fold, as a series of high-profile defections and endorsements continue to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
This development follows the resignation of the party’s immediate past National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, and comes amid growing momentum for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, disclosed that discussions are ongoing with several governors across different geopolitical zones, predicting that defections will become official in the coming months.
“We are talking about governors from Bayelsa, Rivers, Plateau, Kano, and either Abia or Enugu. Within the next two months, you’ll see them officially join us,” Arodiogbu said.
This strategy builds on recent political realignments, including the dramatic defection of Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, who joined the APC along with lawmakers and the entire Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structure in the state. Similarly, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, former governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and other all the PDP stakeholders switched allegiance to the ruling party in April.
Also drawing attention is the public endorsement of President Tinubu’s second-term ambition by Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). Although Soludo has not formally joined the APC, speculation remains rife over his political future.
Arodiogbu downplayed efforts by opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi, to form a united front, describing it as “a media stunt” with no real impact.
“These politicians are simply chasing headlines. Nigerians are aligning with a party that is delivering results and that is the APC,” he stated.
He also confirmed that negotiations are in progress with Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and key figures in Rivers State. Regarding Osun State, he noted that while Governor Ademola Adeleke has shown interest, there are unresolved internal dynamics.
“Bayelsa is certainly part of the conversation. On Adeleke, I can’t confirm definitively, but he has made overtures. We’re also looking at Abia and Enugu. Anambra will be crucial in 2027,” Arodiogbu added.
Anambra Politics and Soludo’s Waning Clout
Arodiogbu pushed back against reports suggesting that President Tinubu had entered into a political arrangement with Governor Soludo ahead of 2027. He clarified that the APC remains committed to backing its own candidate in Anambra.
“There is no deal with Soludo. After the President’s recent visit to inaugurate the Emeka Anyaoku Centre, we introduced our candidate, Nicholas Ukachukwu. President Tinubu urged us to go and win the state,” he said.
He criticized Soludo’s leadership style, claiming the governor has lost public support due to frequent conflicts with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and market associations.
“Soludo is surviving on endorsements from people he once alienated. Meanwhile, Ukachukwu has long-standing political credibility and a stronger grassroots base. We are confident that APC will take Anambra in 2027,” Arodiogbu added.
Tensions Over Adeleke’s Prospective Defection
While Arodiogbu hinted at possible moves by Governor Adeleke, internal resistance within Osun APC could pose a barrier. Key figures in the party, including former governor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, and APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, are reportedly positioning themselves for the 2026 gubernatorial ticket — complicating any plans to accommodate Adeleke.
A source within the party said: “There are strong interests within Osun APC who oppose Adeleke joining. Otherwise, he would have done so already.”
When contacted, Basiru declined to speculate. “To the best of my knowledge, Governor Adeleke has not applied to join the APC. So I cannot comment on what remains speculation,” he stated.
With a shifting political terrain and Tinubu’s re-election campaign gaining steam, the APC’s strategy of aggressive expansion could further destabilize the opposition especially if the predicted wave of gubernatorial defections materializes.
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