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• APC defends turf, ADC, NDC, PDP sharpen attacks
By Lateef Dada, Osogbo; Priscilla Ediare, Ado-Ekiti; Lukman Olabiyi, Lagos; Laide Raheem, Abeokuta; Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure; and Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
With presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 16, 2027, followed by the governorship and state assembly polls on February 6, 2027, political analysts anticipate a fiercely contested race driven by massive electorate.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable, campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections kicked off on August 19, 2026, while campaigns for the governorship and State House of Assembly elections are slated to begin on September 9, 2026.
Political parties declare readiness to participate and emerge victorious, banking on issue-based campaigns, potential capacity, record and achievements of their candidates.
Osun: Parties vow to rely on issue-based campaigns, mobilization in 2027
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State has declared that the outcome of the recent governorship election will not dictate the results of the 2027 general elections, assuring the public that the party is re-strategising to secure victory in the state.
Speaking through the State Spokesperson, Hon. Nurain Adebisi, the party maintained its readiness to contest all elective positions regardless of the outcome of the August 15 gubernatorial poll.
“As a party with candidates for all elective offices, we are ready notwithstanding the outcome of the just-concluded gubernatorial election.
“Winning in Osun is not a big deal for us, as the indices that determined the governorship election will not be the same for federal elections. Why? People are not pleased with the performance of the APC-led federal government under President Bola Tinubu,” Adebisi said.
Adebisi criticised the current economic hardship in the country, alleging that widespread poverty is being weaponised by the ruling party to manipulate voters through vote-buying, a tactic he claimed was deployed in off-cycle elections in Anambra, Edo, Ondo, and recently in Osun. However, he insisted that such strategies are bound to fail in 2027.
“The Osun governorship election result is a reflection of the poverty situation in the country, which by extension is a failure of President Tinubu’s economic agenda,” he added.
According to Adebisi, the party is currently reviewing the outcome of the recent Osun election and will implement necessary adjustments ahead of the upcoming national polls.
He also assured voters that the ADC’s upcoming campaign will be strictly issue-based, driven by a commitment to offering viable solutions for Nigeria and Nigerians.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Osun State, Dr. Charles Omidiji, has declared that the party is fully prepared for the upcoming general elections, expressing strong confidence that its candidates will emerge victorious.
Speaking in an interview with our correspondent, Omidiji contrasted the party’s current standing with previous election cycles, noting a marked improvement in structural readiness.
“Unlike before, we are now fully prepared. Previously, we did not field a governorship candidate, but this time we have candidates across all positions, from the presidency and Senate to the House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly. We are ever ready,” Omidiji stated.
He attributed his optimism to aggressive grassroots mobilisation, which has brought various women’s and youth associations, as well as critical support groups, into the party’s fold.
“By the special grace of God, we are going to win the elections come 2027 because we have already mobilised numerous tendencies and support groups, including various women and youth associations. We are definitely winning,” he added.
According to Omidiji, the party’s campaign strategy centers on substantive issues rather than conventional rhetoric. He highlighted the presidential agenda of Peter Obi, describing it as a comprehensive 10-point plan designed to address critical national challenges.
Reflecting on previous electoral outcomes in Osun State, the chairman commended the introduction of the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal, noting that technology-driven transparency plays a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of the ballot.
“The outcome in Osun teaches us that if we truly mobilise our people, ensure our candidates are on the ground, and leverage the IReV portal effectively, we can definitely win or rather, the best candidate will win. I really appreciate the IReV system. If it is fully optimised for the presidential and general elections, we are confident of victory by the grace of God,” he noted.
Addressing concerns over electoral malpractices, Omidiji maintained that the NDC lacks the financial capacity for vote-buying. Instead, the party will rely on issue-driven mobilisation and other strategic initiatives to secure victory at the polls.
The Coordinator of Renewed Hope Ambassador in Osun, Sunday Akere promised to get back and has since refused to answer calls.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) I Chairman in Osun, Sunday Bisi, collapsed structure with Governor Ademola Adeleke of Accord during the August 15 governorship election and the governor has promised to work for emergence of President Bola Tinubu.
The spokesperson of Accord, Oladele Bamiji, has refused to react to message on the chance of the party in the national and state assembly elections.
Ekiti: Issue-based campaigns, electoral tech dominate parties’ strategies as Ekiti parties gear up for 2027 elections
Ekiti State political parties are ramping up preparations for the upcoming general elections, with leaders emphasising issue-based campaigns, grassroots mobilisation, and the evolving role of electoral technology.
Speaking on the state’s readiness, the Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Political Matters and Inter-Party Relations, Chief Jide Awe, declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is fully prepared for the polls. Awe stated that the party would leverage the achievements of President Bola Tinubu to secure victory, maintaining that the APC remains the only credible party with a credible candidate.
Addressing concerns over electoral technology, Awe defended the use of the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal.
“Technology, to a very large extent, has improved the attitude of voters. So, if we have introduced some elements of technology to make elections faster and easier, that does not mean we should view it negatively,” he said.
From the opposition, Chief Sanya Atofarati, the House of Representatives candidate for Ekiti South Federal Constituency under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), stressed that his party has focused on building political relationships and studying the terrain. Atofarati argued that democracy must not become the exclusive property of political elites.
“Our argument is that democracy must not become the exclusive property of political elites. Political power belongs to the people. We are asking Ekiti people to join a national movement to reclaim democratic power and return government to the people,” Atofarati stated.
He added that Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision centers on solutions, competence, and national reset.
On the IReV portal, Atofarati described Osun State election as an important lesson, noting that INEC’s uploading of over 98 percent of polling-unit results proved that the people’s will can prevail when transparency is upheld.
However, he cautioned that technology alone is not a guarantee. “What ultimately matters is the combination of technology, vigilant citizens, credible electoral officials, responsible security agencies, and political parties that are prepared to defend every legitimate vote through lawful means,” he noted.
Similarly, the Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ekiti, Hon. Dele Ekunola, affirmed that his party is fully prepared for the polls and anticipates forming strategic collaborations with other political groups.
Echoing sentiments on transparency, Ekunola expressed confidence that INEC will continue to build on the progress made during the Osun election as the ADC rolls out vibrant, issue-based campaign strategies.
In the same vein, Ayodele Adesua, the House of Representatives candidate for Ekiti North Federal Constituency 1 under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), disclosed that the party has activated its structures down to the ward and unit levels across Ikole and Oye Local Government Areas. The party has launched door-to-door campaigns led by respected local figures.
Adesua expressed optimism about the NDC’s electoral prospects, stating that voters are tired of unfulfilled promises and are looking for tangible democratic dividends rather than excuses.
Highlighting the impact of the IReV and BVAS technologies in the Osun polls, Adesua said, “With IReV and BVAS, rigging has become much harder. You can no longer rig your way to Abuja. You must convince the people at the polling unit, and the party that does the real grassroots work and earns the people’s trust will carry the day.”
Lagos: APC banks on infrastructure as opposition parties vow to break ruling party’s dominance
Lagos State chapters of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and other political actors have declared their full readiness for the 2027 general elections as grassroots mobilisation intensifies across the state.
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This heightened political activity follows the official commencement of the 2027 electioneering season.
To maintain its stronghold, the Lagos APC has decentralised its campaign strategy, placing heavy emphasis on wards and local government areas.
In a statement signed by Ayaba Omobola Nowoola-Akingbehin, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Lagos State APC Chairman Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, the party noted that its grassroots machinery has been reinforced through stakeholder engagements across the state’s 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas.
Outreach efforts have actively targeted women’s groups, youth organisations, market associations, community leaders, and artisans.
“Lagos stands ready and well-equipped for the task of providing the necessary grassroots mobilisation and electoral strength for the victory of the party in the elections,” the statement read, adding that every polling unit will be directly engaged.
For its campaign narrative, the Lagos APC is pointing to state-level infrastructure projects, such as the operational Blue Line and Red Line rail systems, extensive road rehabilitations, and urban renewal initiatives, alongside federal policies under the Tinubu administration, including foreign exchange reforms, fiscal restructuring, and major transportation projects like the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.
Meanwhile, opposition parties are seeking to disrupt the political status quo. The Lagos State Chairman of the ADC, George Ashiru, recently declared his party’s readiness to end the APC’s long-standing dominance in the state, asserting that the ADC stands a strong chance of ousting the ruling party at both the state and federal levels.
Similarly, despite internal party challenges, chieftains of the NDC in Lagos have affirmed their readiness for the polls, aiming to expand their presence and challenge the major political blocs.
Ogun: Major parties finalise strategy, keep campaign councils under wraps
In Ogun State, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are actively engaging key stakeholders ahead of the official campaign flag-off for the 2027 general elections.
However, both parties have yet to publicly unveil their full campaign councils, making it difficult to get spokesperson for the general elections.
During the PDP’s Presidential and National Assembly campaign flag-off held at the Ake Pavilion inside the Alake’s Palace in Abeokuta on August 26, the event compere introduced the party’s governorship candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, as the chairman of the presidential campaign council.
When contacted via WhatsApp for clarification on the complete structure of the campaign council, Ogun PDP Chairman, Hon. Abayomi Tella, initially declined to comment.
Speaking with our correspondent, Tella confirmed Adebutu’s appointment as the head of the presidential campaign team.
He added that the party is currently perfecting the lineup for the governorship and state assembly campaign council, which will be formally announced through a press release soon.
Similarly, the APC has kept its campaign organization closely guarded. Responding briefly to inquiries, the Ogun APC State Publicity Secretary, Olufemi Nuberu, stated: “The necessary preparations are on course steadily. Thanks.”
In a follow-up statement, Nuberu clarified that the party is putting the finishing touches on its campaign structure. He assured that members of the press will soon be invited to the official unveiling of the APC governorship and state assembly campaign councils.
Ondo: APC moves to quell factional crisis as ADC gains momentum ahead of polls
Major political parties in Ondo State have intensified preparations for the forthcoming 2027 general elections, launching early grassroots campaigns to win over the electorate.
Ahead of the polls, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has stepped up efforts to reconcile aggrieved members following contentious party primaries.
The internal rift escalated after key party leaders alleged that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who is rumored to harbor gubernatorial ambitions, influenced the nomination of candidates for the Senate, House of Representatives, and State House of Assembly to favor his faction.
However, Ondo State Governor and party leader, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, dismissed rumors of division, maintaining that the APC remains united.
Addressing party members, Aiyedatiwa declared that the state chapter has resolved to work together for a total victory across all elections, including delivering at least one million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Unveiling the party’s strategic mobilisation plan, Governor Aiyedatiwa announced the activation of mobilization councils across all 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and warned against internal factionalisation.
“APC is one. There are no two APCs in Ondo State. We do not want to leave anyone out. Even those attempting to create factions are being engaged to ensure the party remains undivided,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
He added that party elders across the 18 LGAs are working tirelessly to secure victory for all APC candidates, reiterating that the success of his administration and the state’s development are tied to the party’s electoral triumph.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is positioning itself as a strong challenger following the high-profile defection of Eyitayo Jegede, SAN.
The former Attorney General, Commissioner for Justice, and PDP governorship candidate recently joined the ADC alongside thousands of his supporters nationwide.
The party is now relying heavily on Jegede’s political clout and statewide popularity to drive its 2027 campaign strategy.
Oyo: ADC, NDC, PDP lock horns in high-stakes opposition battle
The 2027 general election is shaping up to be a fierce contest in Oyo State as the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) step up efforts to build party structures capable of securing victory across all levels, from the presidency to the state house of assembly.
All three parties outlined their preparedness, strategic approaches, and key takeaways from the recent Osun governorship election during discussions on their electoral chances.
ADC chieftain, Adekola Adeoye, stated that his party is deeply entrenched at the grassroots, with active structures across all 33 local government areas.
Moving away from seasonal political campaigns, Adeoye noted that the party is focused on establishing permanent machinery to mobilise voters and protect its electoral mandate.
He expressed confidence that electorate preferences are shifting from political personalities toward critical issues such as competence, security, job creation, infrastructure, and the cost of living.
Adeoye added that the nomination of Oloye Taofeeq Adegoke, as the ADC governorship candidate has bolstered the party’s prospects.
Beyond running an issue-based campaign centered on agriculture, education, healthcare, and industrialisation, the party plans to deploy trained agents to monitor and safeguard every vote.
The NDC expressed equal confidence in its trajectory. Oyo State Chairperson Oyerinke Akinlolu disclosed that the party established nearly 80 percent of its state structure in under six months.
Citing the growing influence of its legislative representatives and gubernatorial candidate, Akinlolu insisted that the NDC is fully prepared to compete across every elective position.
Meanwhile, PDP Chairman, Prof. Rahman Akinoso, relied on his party’s political history in the state.
Highlighting functional structures across state, local government, and ward levels, Akinoso noted that the PDP completed its primaries strictly in compliance with INEC guidelines.
He emphasised that the PDP is not treating the 2027 election as an experiment, leveraging its past executive performance and established platform to mount a formidable challenge.
Despite their differing strategies, all three parties agreed on a critical lesson from the Osun election: raw election manipulation is becoming increasingly difficult.
For the ADC, the response lies in agent training and vote-monitoring mechanisms; for the NDC, it highlights an electorate determined to defend its vote; and for the PDP, it proves that executive performance ultimately dictates how voters reward or punish political parties.
