..warns APC against complacency
Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives has described the coalition against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general election as a desperate attempt that lacks ideology.
Speaking at the National Executive Committee meeting of the APC at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, the Speaker said the coalition, which has now adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its platform for the election, only wants to replicate the merger of political parties to form the APC ahead of the 2023 election.
“Since our last (APC NEC) meeting, the opposition has undergone seismic shifts. The PDP is fracturing due to leadership tussles and defections, with many members joining either the APC or a new opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This coalition, cobbled from former PDP, APC, and Labour Party players, plots to challenge us in 2027.
“While this poses a challenge, it is a desperate coalition attempting to replicate our 2013 APC merger. Their unity appears opportunistic, and their lack of a clear ideology weakens their appeal compared to our proven and tested governance”, Abbas said.
He added that smaller parties, such as the Labour Party and the NNPP, are clearly in decline, as the ADC is desperately courting other parties, such as the SDP and PRP.
Amidst all these, he said the APC must remain vigilant, preparing for a potentially united opposition in 2027. According to the Speaker, the APC’s dominance is clear, but warned that complacency is not an option.
“We must strengthen internal cohesion by addressing grievances and rewarding loyalty, ensuring no faction feels sidelined”, he added.
Abbas also noted that the APC has navigated a smooth leadership transition following the resignation of its National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, on June 27, 2025, and the election of his successor, Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development “under the guidance of President Tinubu.”
While stating that the APC’s maturity in managing this transition without rancour underscores members’ unity and discipline, he said their strength continues to grow, bolstered by defections from opposition parties.
“These defections affirm the APC’s credibility as the party of choice for progressive Nigerians. I warmly welcome our new members and assure them of our commitment to good governance,” he said.
