2027 Race: APC Reportedly Offering Ministerial Slots, Automatic Tickets, and More to Woo Opposition

As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 presidential elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is reportedly engaging in high-stakes negotiations with opposition governors, offering them attractive political incentives to secure their support. According to multiple sources, these offers include ministerial positions, automatic return tickets, the chance to choose their successors, and the power to nominate National Assembly members.

The move by the APC has heightened tensions among opposition parties such as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). Prominent opposition figures have expressed concern that these incentives are designed to weaken their ranks ahead of the crucial elections.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, has warned opposition leaders against endorsing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid. He described such support as a vote for failure and urged unity among opposition parties to challenge the APC-led government. Atiku, through his media adviser, highlighted worsening economic conditions, rising insecurity, and declining welfare under the current administration as reasons Nigerians should reject Tinubu in 2027.

The PDP and NNPP have accused the APC of using state power to coerce defections. PDP spokesperson Debo Ologunagba and NNPP’s Ladipo Johnson claimed that members of their parties are being pressured to join the ruling party. Ologunagba insisted that these defections would not secure Tinubu’s victory, describing the APC as a “failed government” and calling for opposition unity to reclaim the country.

Meanwhile, the APC has denied any coercion, with National Secretary Ajibola Basiru and Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim stating that Nigerians are joining the party willingly due to its achievements. They emphasized that the APC remains open to new members and confident in its capacity to manage growth without internal conflict.

Recent defections underscore this trend. In April, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former governor Ifeanyi Okowa, PDP’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, joined the APC alongside other officials. Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has also hinted at leaving the PDP soon, reportedly due to fears of losing his re-election bid if he remains in the opposition.

Sources reveal that the APC is actively courting other opposition governors. A closed-door meeting was held between National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, reportedly centered on convincing Fintiri and his cabinet to defect. The governor was allegedly offered the opportunity to produce his successor, nominate National Assembly candidates, and even choose between ministerial or senatorial positions in 2027.

This aggressive outreach is part of a broader strategy to neutralize the influence of key opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar. Reports also suggest that other NNPP leaders, including Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Taraba Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, and Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang, are quietly supporting Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The wave of defections has significantly impacted the National Assembly, where the APC has gained several lawmakers from opposition parties, strengthening its control. Since the start of the 10th Assembly, the APC has absorbed at least 38 defectors, increasing its majority in both the Senate and House of Representatives.

Despite this, opposition leaders remain defiant. Atiku and PDP officials urge party members to stay committed and resist pressure to defect. They stress the need for a united front against what they describe as an authoritarian APC government undermining Nigeria’s democracy.

The NNPP also expressed concern over the defections, emphasizing that its core leadership remains intact and committed to rebuilding. The party dismissed rumors that its key figures have officially endorsed Tinubu, maintaining that it is preparing for a strong showing in 2027.