Opposition Parties Criticize APC’s Move to Open Up 2027 Presidential Ticket
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked widespread criticism from opposition parties after announcing that its 2027 presidential ticket will be open to contest, despite its earlier endorsement of President Bola Tinubu as its flagbearer.
In a move intended to adhere to democratic principles, APC National Organizing Secretary Suleiman Argungu confirmed that although President Tinubu enjoys broad support within the party, anyone wishing to challenge him may still purchase nomination forms (“2027 presidency: Why APC opted for open ticket” – Daily Trust) . The decision echoes a similar approach used during President Buhari’s candidacy in 2018, designed to maintain compliance with party rules and the Electoral Act.
However, this gesture has not quelled criticism. The opposition has hit back strongly. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) denounced the move as a façade to legitimize what it views as an undemocratic endorsement. They argue it undermines genuine democratic competition and reinforces Tinubu’s dominance (“PDP accuses Tinubu of intimidating opposition ahead of 2027 elections”) .
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) joined the chorus of disapproval. CUPP criticized the APC’s actions as an attempt to limit legitimate democratic processes and questioned the sincerity behind such an “open” contest. They see it as a smoke screen designed to avoid legal challenges and stifle genuine competition (“2027: CUPP urges PDP govs to reconsider stance on coalition”) .
The SDP went further, accusing the APC of consolidating power in a way that disenfranchises actual contenders. They condemned the move as opportunistic and contradictory to true democratic values.
These mounting concerns come as the PDP also solidified its internal approach by resolving to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, a strategic move intended to restore regional equity and unify its base (“UPDATED: PDP zones 2027 presidential ticket to South”) .
Observers believe that this clash over the APC’s open primary arrangements reflects growing tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape. The decision may have been made to present an image of inclusion, but opposition parties assert that without genuine internal competition, it remains largely symbolic.
