APC faces growing internal tensions after massive defections

APC leaders met in Abuja to address APC internal tensions following recent defections and prepare for the March national convention

The All Progressives Congress, APC, on Wednesday began moves to manage APC internal tensions arising from recent high-profile defections and unresolved crises in several state chapters.

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The meeting, held in Abuja, brought together members of the party’s National Working Committee and governors elected on the APC platform.

The closed-door session took place at the Imo State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, ahead of the party’s national convention scheduled for March.

Those present included the APC Governors’ Forum Chairman and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, and the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda.

Other governors at the meeting included Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Uba Sani of Kaduna, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi, and Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo.

Also in attendance were Governors Mohammed Idris of Kebbi, Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto, Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Agbu Kefas of Taraba, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom.

Multiple party officials said discussions centred on the APC’s 2027 electoral strategy and the integration of eight opposition governors who recently defected to the ruling party.

According to the officials, the leadership acknowledged the political gains from the defections but warned of possible implosion if interests are poorly managed.

One official said the party must accommodate new entrants without alienating existing structures as preparations for future elections intensify.

The meeting also reviewed the ongoing electronic registration and revalidation exercise, alongside plans for ward and local government congresses nationwide.

Another party chieftain said attention was drawn to unresolved disputes in some state chapters, including Rivers State.

The consultation comes amid unprecedented political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In recent months, eight sitting governors elected on opposition platforms have defected to the APC, alongside lawmakers and influential political figures.

The defectors include Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, Peter Mbah of Enugu, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, and Abba Yusuf of Kano.

Others are Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, and Agbu Kefas of Taraba.

The influx has expanded the APC’s national footprint and strengthened its coordination from federal to state levels.

However, party insiders say the gains have triggered fresh power struggles in states where long-standing leaders resist new blocs.

Analysts warn that unresolved disputes during congresses could weaken the party, as seen in previous election cycles.

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With less than two years to the polls, the APC leadership is pushing to stabilise the party and prevent internal fractures that could threaten its grip on power.