With about 12 months before voting day, cracks in Nigeria’s opposition parties are widening and the All Progressives Congress (APC) is moving fast to benefit.
The ruling party unveiled its 2027 election road map first, including key dates like its national convention set for March 25–28, 2026. This early planning aims to boost unity and give candidates time to prepare. Several opposition platforms are struggling with internal issues.
Faction fights and rival leadership claims slowing momentum, Courts still settling disputes over party control and Coordination challenges among leaders delay planning.
INEC’s recognition of Senator Esther Nenadi-Usman as acting chairman hasn’t fully ended the party’s leadership battle, weakening its rebuild efforts after 2023.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s long-time opposition giant, is mired in leadership and legal deadlock, slowing congresses and preparations for primaries.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) part of the rising opposition coalition paused planned ward congresses and shifted focus to internal committees, raising questions about readiness. Rivalries between supporters of key figures in the alliance add to the unease.
Governors and political figures leaving opposition ranks for the APC are deepening the imbalance, with analysts saying defections often follow uncertainties about credible primaries and campaign strategies.
A top voice in the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) warns that opposition unity is essential if the APC’s winning streak is to be interrupted without it, the 2027 race could be lost before it begins. Though political clocks are ticking, INEC reminds parties and Nigerians that it has not yet released the official 2027 election timetable that notice must come at least 360 days before elections.
