The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Nantewe Yilwatda, has dismissed concerns over the reported defection of Peter Obi from the ADC to the NDC, insisting that the ruling party remains focused and unthreatened ahead of the 2027 elections.
Yilwatda spoke on Wednesday in Abuja during the ongoing purchase and submission of APC nomination and expression of interest forms for the 2027 general elections.
Key Highlights
- APC says Peter Obi’s move to NDC poses no threat
- Yilwatda dismisses opposition defections as insignificant
- APC insists opposition parties should resolve internal crises
- Party rejects extension of nomination form deadline
- APC says strong turnout reflects growing national support
Reacting to recent political realignments within opposition parties, Yilwatda stated that defections among opposition figures had no impact on the APC’s political strength.
According to him, movements between opposition parties such as the ADC and NDC merely reflect internal struggles within the opposition camp.
He also downplayed the reported resignation of about 18 National Assembly members from the ADC to the NDC, describing the development as politically insignificant.
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Speaking further, the APC chairman argued that criticism often follows politicians who defect to the ruling party, while defections within opposition parties receive less scrutiny.
Yilwatda maintained that the APC remains solid, organised, and well-positioned for the 2027 elections.
On the ongoing sale of nomination and expression of interest forms, he said the large turnout of aspirants and supporters demonstrated growing public acceptance of the ruling party across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
He added that the APC leadership was encouraged by the level of participation, which he described as evidence of confidence in the party’s administration.
The APC chairman also ruled out extending the deadline for the purchase and submission of nomination forms, citing limitations imposed by the Electoral Act.
According to him, the party must adhere to the timeline required for conducting primaries and submitting candidates’ names to the electoral authorities.
Yilwatda assured party members that measures would be introduced during the screening process to manage crowds and ensure a smooth exercise.
He noted that while large gatherings reflected the party’s popularity and mobilisation strength, access to screening venues would still be properly regulated.
The comments come amid increasing political realignments and coalition talks ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition parties seeking new alliances to challenge the ruling APC.
