2027 elections: Why APC remains party to beat – Yilwatda

By Lawrence Agbo

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has revealed that the ruling party remains the dominant political force ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at a Townhall event on Sunday, Yilwatda dismissed suggestions that the recently signed Electoral Act gives the APC any structural advantages, maintaining that the law applies equally to all political parties.

The chairman of the APC called the surge of defections by politicians elected on opposition platforms both legitimate and politically rational. He claimed that the decreasing fortunes of their former parties served as a motivator for many defectors.

“Very fair, very fair because you will discover that many of those political parties are already dying,”

“They saw a reason to join us because of how we operate as a party—from party management to organization and mobilization,” Yilwatda said.

He argued that the APC’s internal unity and governance approach make it the preferred political platform for both politicians and voters.

“APC seems to be the best party in terms of mobilization, organization, and governance. That provides a leeway for competition. When I go to the market, I have a choice to make: a choice between good governance, good party management, and a transparent system,” he added.

Yilwatda’s comments coincide with continuing discussions about electoral changes and the effects of cross-party defections on Nigeria’s democratic landscape, as political realignments deepen as parties prepare for the 2027 elections.