APC 2027 ballot denial as Sunday Dare rejects claims of a plot to exclude opposition parties from Nigeria’s next general election
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communication, Sunday Dare, has denied allegations that the ruling All Progressives Congress plans to dominate the 2027 general election ballot, insisting that Nigeria’s political space remains open to all parties.
Also read: APC Aspirant Mahmud Withdraws Dramatically in Kwara Race
The denial follows protests by the African Democratic Congress over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s decision to suspend recognition of the party’s leadership factions amid ongoing internal disputes.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme, Sunday Dare stated that no political party is being prevented from participating in the electoral process.
He explained that the Independent National Electoral Commission acted based on a Court of Appeal ruling and unresolved leadership crises within the African Democratic Congress.
Sunday Dare dismissed claims that the Federal Government is attempting to weaken opposition parties, describing such allegations as misleading and driven by sentiment rather than facts.
He noted that there are currently about 20 registered political parties in Nigeria, all of which are free to operate and contest elections without interference.
According to him, the challenges facing opposition parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress, are self-inflicted and not orchestrated by the ruling party.
The ballot denial also formed part of a broader defence of the administration’s commitment to democratic principles, including freedom of expression and political participation.
Sunday Dare pointed to the ability of opposition figures and citizens to protest and criticise the government as evidence that democratic rights are being upheld.
He added that building a strong political party requires time, discipline, and sacrifice, stressing that the All Progressives Congress itself underwent a rigorous process to establish its current structure.
Responding to suggestions that the government should assist opposition parties, he argued that such responsibility does not fall within the mandate of the President.
Also read: APC Aspirant Mahmud Withdraws Dramatically in Kwara Race
The comments come amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 elections, with growing scrutiny of institutional decisions and party dynamics shaping the emerging landscape.
