The All Progressives Congress (APC) has moved closer to adopting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. This development comes as political parties prepare for primary elections, which are scheduled to commence on April 23, 2026, and end on May 30, 2026, according to the revised timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The APC's six zones held their congresses, reaffirming their support for President Tinubu as the party's flag bearer in the next general elections. This decision was made in line with the declarations made by state chapters of the party at their various congresses earlier this year. The congresses were held at the zonal headquarters of the party, with the North Central zone being the first to adopt President Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate.
The North Central zone's secretary, George Akume, moved the motion for adoption, which was seconded by the host governor, Abdullahi Sule. Akume highlighted the zone's contributions to Nigeria's development and urged party members to work towards securing the highest number of votes for Tinubu in 2027. The zone also re-elected Mu'azu Mohammed Bawa Rijau as its zonal vice chairman.
Similarly, the South-West chapter of the party gave assurance to deliver the highest votes for President Tinubu in the 2027 general election. The newly elected zonal chairman, Isaac Kekemeke, reiterated the zone's commitment to delivering overwhelming support for President Tinubu.
The APC's move to adopt President Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections raises questions about the party's internal democracy. The fact that the six zones of the party have already endorsed Tinubu suggests a lack of transparency in the party's primary election process. This development may also lead to a lack of competition in the party's primaries, which could ultimately affect the quality of candidates presented to voters in the 2027 general elections. The APC's decision may also have implications for the party's chances of winning the presidential election, particularly if the party fails to present a strong and competitive candidate.
