2027: APC must unite to win, says aspirant

A presidential aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, Sagir Maidoya, has stressed the need for unity within the party, warning that internal divisions could undermine its chances in the 2027 general elections.

Maidoya, a party member from Maiburuji Ward in Kaduna North Local Government Area of Kaduna State, said cohesion, discipline and mutual respect among members remained critical to sustaining the party’s electoral dominance.

In a statement issued on Friday, the aspirant reaffirmed his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the APC, describing the party as a stabilising force in the country’s democratic journey.

“The APC remains the foremost stabilising force in Nigeria’s democratic journey. With a clear mandate anchored on the Renewed Hope Agenda, our party has continued to demonstrate capacity, resilience and direction in steering the affairs of our nation,” he said.

He, however, emphasised that unity must take precedence over individual ambitions if the party hopes to secure victory in 2027.

“A united APC is an unbeatable APC. It is only through cohesion, discipline, mutual respect and collective commitment that we can consolidate our achievements and secure a resounding victory in the 2027 general elections,” Maidoya stated.

The aspirant alleged that opposition forces were already attempting to exploit perceived cracks within the ruling party through what he described as “opportunistic alliances.”

“Recent developments indicate that opposition elements are attempting to capitalise on perceived differences within our ranks by orchestrating opportunistic alliances designed to mislead Nigerians and derail our progress,” he said.

He added, “Let it be clearly stated: no coalition built on convenience, desperation or mere power-seeking can rival the strength, depth and credibility of a party grounded in ideology, service and the enduring trust of the Nigerian people.”

Maidoya called on party leaders and stakeholders across all levels—from the grassroots to the national leadership—to close ranks and strengthen internal harmony, while deepening engagement with Nigerians.

“We must remain focused on delivering good governance while reinforcing the unity that has sustained our dominance since 2015,” he said.

Speaking on his presidential ambition, Maidoya said it was driven by a desire to contribute to national development and the growth of the party.

“As an aspirant for the presidency in 2027, my ambition is not driven by personal gain, but by a sincere commitment to contribute meaningfully to the continued growth of our party and the advancement of our nation,” he said.

He added that he was ready to work with stakeholders to foster inclusivity and mobilise grassroots support ahead of the polls.

“The road to 2027 must not be defined by individual aspirations, but by a shared vision—one party, one purpose, one Nigeria,” he said.

The call for unity comes amid early political realignments and subtle jostling for influence within major parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. While the APC continues to hold power at the federal level, analysts say internal cohesion will be crucial as new and returning political actors position themselves for future contests.

The party, formed in 2013 through a merger of opposition blocs, rose to national prominence after defeating the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party in the 2015 general elections, marking the first time an incumbent government was unseated at the federal level in Nigeria.

Since then, the APC has retained power, producing successive administrations, including the current government led by Tinubu, whose “Renewed Hope Agenda” focuses on economic reforms, infrastructure development and social welfare programmes.

However, in recent months, there have been reports of shifting alliances among opposition parties and increased political consultations across the country, signalling the gradual build-up to the next electoral cycle. Observers note that how the APC manages internal differences and consolidates its base could play a decisive role in determining its electoral fortunes in 2027.