LAGOS: The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday described Nigeria’s opposition parties as weak and disorganised ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying they appear to be “merely breathing but not competing.”
Also, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to use a recent court ruling as an opportunity to rebuild and reposition itself.
The Lagos State spokesman of the APC, Mr Seye Oladejo, in a statement issued in Lagos, said the nation might be heading towards one of the most predictable electoral cycles in its democratic history due to the inability of opposition parties to present a credible and organised alternative to the ruling party.
According to him, parties expected to challenge the APC and offer alternative programmes of governance have instead been engulfed in internal crises, leadership struggles and political opportunism.
“As the nation approaches the 2027 elections, Nigeria may be heading towards one of the most predictable electoral cycles in its democratic history.
“The reason is simple:
Apan opposition repeatedly showing a lack of coherence, courage and constructive engagement with the pressing needs of Nigerians,” Oladejo said.
He noted that instead of building strong institutions and policy-driven platforms capable of addressing national challenges, opposition parties have largely focused on media campaigns and constant criticism of the government without presenting practical solutions.
“Rather than building strong institutions or policy-driven platforms, the opposition has largely confined itself to media theatrics and perpetual complaints,” he said.
Oladejo also pointed to what he described as intense rivalry among opposition leaders, saying personal ambition and the struggle for political control have further weakened their capacity to mobilise support and present a united front.
“Instead of building consensus and strengthening party structures, leading figures appear trapped in relentless contests of individual aspirations.
The result is a fragmented political bloc unable to present a coherent national alternative,” he said.
He added that there was little evidence that opposition parties were preparing seriously for the next general elections, noting that beyond occasional statements aimed at reminding the public of their existence, Nigerians had seen little organisation, mobilisation or policy articulation from them.
“Beyond occasional blabbing to remind the public they are politically breathing, Nigerians have seen little organisation, mobilisation or policy articulation. Unfortunately, this pattern may remain largely unchanged in the months ahead,” he said.
The APC spokesman, however, acknowledged that a weak opposition was not healthy for the growth of democracy, stressing that democratic systems function better when there is a responsible and organised opposition capable of presenting viable alternatives to the electorate.
“Democracy functions best with a responsible and organised opposition capable of presenting viable alternatives to the electorate. Unfortunately, the current situation reflects the opposite,” he added.
Oladejo said that despite the situation within opposition ranks, the APC remained focused on governance and the implementation of reforms aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.
He cited economic restructuring initiatives, investments in infrastructure, and social intervention programmes across the country as examples of the party’s efforts to strengthen governance and promote national development.
According to him, these programmes and reforms have reinforced public confidence in the APC and contributed to the growing belief that continuity and stability may shape voters’ decisions in the 2027 elections.
“It is therefore unsurprising that as 2027 draws closer, Nigerians increasingly look towards continuity, stability and proven leadership. Elections should be competitive and inspiring, but when alternatives fail to present credible visions, outcomes naturally become more predictable,” Oladejo said.
He urged political actors across the country to elevate democratic engagement by promoting issue-based campaigns, policy debates and disciplined political organisations.
“Nigerians deserve robust debates, thoughtful policy proposals and disciplined political organisations, not fragmented alliances driven by desperation rather than conviction. Our party remains confident Nigerians will once again evaluate performance, leadership and vision when the time comes.
“Until then, we remain committed to governance, service and the continued progress of our great nation,” he said.
