APC’s Bold Declaration
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, has declared that Nigeria’s opposition parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), are “dying at a fantastic rate.” This statement came on March 8, 2025, during a ceremony in Abuja where Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau welcomed defectors from the Coalition of Atiku Support Groups in the 19 Northern States.
A Major Defection to the APC
The Coalition of Atiku Support Groups, which had campaigned for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 presidential election, officially defected to the APC. The group, comprising women, youths, students, traders, academics, and farmers, surrendered their certificate of recognition to the APC leadership, pledging to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election.
Coordinator of the Coalition, Hon. Abubakar Malami, stated, “Our groups mobilized across the nooks and crannies of the 19 Northern States and the FCT to campaign for Atiku Abubakar in 2023. Now, we are here to support President Tinubu and the APC.”
Ganduje’s Confidence in APC’s Dominance
Ganduje used the occasion to boast about the APC’s growing strength, claiming that opposition parties are struggling to remain relevant. He pointed to the upcoming Anambra State governorship election as evidence, noting that the PDP has yet to finalize its aspirants for screening.
“Even in Anambra, the PDP is yet to have aspirants for screening, which is why they are extending their time for screening. Opposition parties are dying, and the APC is harvesting their members,” Ganduje declared.
Deputy Senate President Hails Defectors
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau described the defection as a “big catch” for the APC. He praised President Tinubu’s efforts to reposition Nigeria and urged the new members to contribute to the party’s success.
“Mr. President is doing his best to reposition Nigeria into a land of prosperity. It’s good that you have acknowledged this and joined the APC family,” Barau said. He assured the defectors that they would enjoy the same privileges as long-standing members, emphasizing that hard work would determine their recognition within the party.
What This Means for Nigerian Politics
The defection of Atiku’s former supporters to the APC is a significant blow to the PDP and a testament to the ruling party’s growing influence. As the 2027 general election approaches, the APC appears to be consolidating its position, while the opposition struggles to maintain cohesion and relevance.
Why This Matters
This development underscores the shifting dynamics of Nigerian politics, with the APC strengthening its grip on power and the opposition facing internal challenges. For voters, it raises questions about the future of multi-party democracy and the need for strong, viable opposition to ensure accountability and balance in governance.