President Bola Tinubu’s political maneuvers are being credited with a surge of defections by top opposition figures into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling a major shift ahead of the 2027 elections.
Tinubu’s strategy—whether through persuasion, political deals, or strategic alliances—have weakened the opposition.
ABUJA – A major political shift is underway in Nigeria as top opposition figures, including four governors, prepare to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), sources confirm to Sunday PUNCH. The move follows President Bola Tinubu’s alleged behind-the-scenes negotiations and growing influence.
Governors on the Move
Insiders name Governors Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Abba Yusuf (Kano), and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers) as likely APC converts. This comes days after Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, ex-Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and PDP lawmakers defected en masse.
“It’s happening—Eno, Mbah, Yusuf, and Fubara are joining soon,” a high-ranking APC source revealed.
Allegations of Coercion
Critics accuse Tinubu of using “inducements and blackmail” to lure defectors. A source cited Fubara’s London meeting with Tinubu amid his rift with Rivers’ political godfathers. Another linked Eno’s move to an EFCC probe involving his predecessor.
However, APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru dismissed the claims:
“How can we induce a governor? Governor Oborevwori openly admired Tinubu before defecting.”
Opposition in Turmoil
The PDP, Labour Party (LP), and NNPP face existential crises:
- PDP: Split between Atiku Abubakar and Nyesom Wike, who backs Tinubu’s 2027 bid.
- LP: Three factions vie for control, losing five federal lawmakers to APC.
- NNPP: Leader Rabiu Kwankwaso mulls alliance with APC, as four lawmakers defect.
Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai alleged the ruling party sponsors opposition crises to weaken rivals.
Presidency’s Defense
Tinubu’s aides credit defections to his leadership. Presidential spokesman Temitope Ajayi stated:
“A beautiful woman attracts suitors. Tinubu made APC a shelter for those in ‘tattered’ parties.”
A presidency source added: “Opposition collapse isn’t Tinubu’s fault. He survived 16 years in opposition—they should fix their parties.”
With 17 National Assembly members already defected, analysts warn of a one-party dominance ahead of 2027.