In a significant shift in political dynamics leading up to the 2027 general election, three to four governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are anticipated to switch allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to support President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
This decision is partly influenced by political unrest in several northern states, where there are indications of diminished backing for the President’s re-election.
At a recent public event, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno publicly expressed his support for President Tinubu, stating that party politics have faded in his state as both PDP and APC members unite in a common front. Meanwhile, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and Rivers State’s suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara are contemplating their support for Tinubu’s re-election while remaining within the PDP.
Governor Eno’s support suggests that the PDP apparatus in Akwa Ibom will back the APC, aiding in Senator Godswill Akpabio’s return to the Senate in 2027. This anticipated shift from more PDP governors is seen as enhancing the APC’s prospects for the upcoming election, particularly amidst threats from northern factions to withdraw support.
Reports indicate that discussions regarding the defections are at an advanced stage, with several conditions outlined to ensure mutual benefits for all parties involved. President Tinubu has reportedly briefed some APC senators about these upcoming defections. Eno’s decision to join the APC appears driven by concerns about securing his own re-election in 2027. Additionally, Akpabio is understood to be facilitating the negotiations for his defection.
To maintain a favorable environment among fellow PDP governors, Eno has chosen not to host them in his state. In return for Eno’s endorsement of Tinubu, Akpabio has pledged to support Eno’s re-election campaign.
Governor Oborevwori is currently considering whether to remain in the PDP while backing Tinubu or to defect to the APC, contingent upon negotiations’ progression. Suspended Governor Fubara is similarly evaluating his options regarding supporting Tinubu while staying with the PDP or switching allegiance.
Fubara’s earlier intentions to defect had been obstructed by the political turmoil in his state, and he has opted against supporting litigation that could undermine his tenure. The notable absence of the three governors from a recent PDP meeting suggests their gradual disengagement from the party.
In addition, Governor Mbah, known for his connection to the Presidency, is also navigating the decision of whether to align with APC to facilitate Tinubu’s re-election while securing his own future.
Pro-Tinubu PDP governors are reportedly against any coalition aimed at displacing the President in 2027, leading to significant concern within the PDP over potential ramifications for the party’s future. Party leaders are contemplating urgent strategies to deter the governors’ defection, while some speculate that a coalition could lead to unfavorable outcomes for the existing leadership amid ongoing internal conflicts.
As part of Tinubu’s effort to solidify Northern support, he is scheduled for meetings in London with key figures, including an influential opposition leader from Kano State, arranged by Akpabio. This outreach aims to address perceptions of discontent within the North, with a secondary meeting involving a former president anticipated to bolster efforts for Tinubu’s re-election bid.
APC leaders believe this approach will be crucial to improving the President’s standing in the North before the 2027 elections.
