2027: Factional candidates deepen opposition crisis as APC intensifies reconciliation efforts
Fresh cracks have emerged within major opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the rise of factional presidential, governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives and state assembly candidates threatening efforts to build a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Fresh cracks have emerged within major opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the rise of factional presidential, governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives and state assembly candidates threatening efforts to build a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The crisis is becoming pronounced in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where a leadership tussle has produced parallel power blocs and rival presidential ambitions.
Dumebi Kachikwu, former ADC presidential candidate, has again emerged as a factional candidate of the party ahead of the 2027 poll.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has also taken an early lead in another ADC primary election, with the official result expected to be announced late Tuesday.
Political observers say the development could weaken opposition cohesion and complicate coalition talks ahead of the polls.
Similar divisions have also surfaced within the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where internal disagreements over leadership and control of party structures have triggered the emergence of rival aspirants and parallel camps positioning for the 2027 presidential contest.
The growing instability in the opposition contrasts sharply with ongoing reconciliation efforts within the APC after its governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives and state assembly primaries.
Nentawe Yilwatda, APC National Chairman, has disclosed that the ruling party has activated its conflict resolution mechanisms to address grievances arising from the primaries and prevent defections.
Despite complaints of imposition, favouritism and irregularities in some states, the APC leadership insists the party remains united and better positioned for the 2027 elections, while opposition parties continue to battle internal fragmentation and factional rivalries.
