The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council is under pressure as internal and external challenges mount ahead of the 2027 Nigerian presidential elections. A coalition known as the Big Tent Coalition, led by Prof. Pat Utomi, has criticized the APC for demanding that President Muhammadu Buhari’s former aide, Peter Obi, withdraw from the race if financial liabilities from his Anambra State tenure are confirmed. The council claims Obi’s administration left unresolved financial issues, prompting the APC to challenge his candidacy.
In response, Obi’s media team has rejected the APC’s call, accusing the party of misrepresenting his administration’s financial records. Meanwhile, APC leaders, including Senator Abdulaziz Yari, have sought support from northern Muslim clerics, visiting representatives of major Islamic sects like Izala, Tijjaniyya, and Qadiriyya. These efforts aim to secure backing from influential religious groups ahead of the election.
The situation highlights growing tensions within the APC as it navigates internal disagreements and external pressures. Some members, including former governors, argue that the party needs more support from key figures like Obi. Others, however, believe the party should focus on maintaining unity ahead of the 2027 race.
As the campaign season approaches, the APC faces the challenge of balancing internal divisions with the need to build a strong, unified front. The outcome of these discussions could shape the party’s strategy and influence the broader political landscape in Nigeria.
