APC National Convention Set to Shape 2027 Elections
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will hold its highly anticipated national convention on Friday and Saturday, with key decisions expected to influence the upcoming 2027 general elections. This gathering, serving as the apex decision-making body for the party, follows the recent completion of state-level conventions across the country.
These preliminary exercises are designed to culminate in a national assembly where party leaders and stakeholders can engage in discussions on critical strategic issues. Among those expected to attend are President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kassim Shettima, governors, federal and state legislators, state party chairmen, members of the National Working Committee (NWC), and former governors.
At a press conference in Abuja, Minister of Information and co-chair of the Media and Publicity Subcommittee, Mohammed Idris, confirmed that 8,453 delegates are expected to participate in the convention.
Debate Over Tinubu’s Political Future
Central to the discussions at the convention will be President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political ambitions, especially regarding his potential pursuit of a second term in 2027. While he has yet to formally announce his intentions, party insiders suggest this topic is set to dominate the agenda.
Earlier this year, APC officials expressed their confidence in Tinubu’s leadership during a summit in Abuja, recognizing him as the leading candidate for the next presidential elections. This approval, supported by NWC members, governors, and federal legislators, was perceived as a strong endorsement for his continuity in leadership.
However, party officials later clarified that this support is not intended to suppress internal democracy. Suleiman Argungu, the APC National Organizing Secretary, emphasized that all eligible party members will have the opportunity to contest for the presidential ticket, ensuring a fair and open environment for potential aspirants.
Election of New National Officers
The national convention will also focus on electing new national officers to guide the party moving forward. This election is crucial for reinforcing the APC’s leadership structure as the 2027 elections approach.
Having already selected aspirants for various positions within the NWC, the National Competition Applicants Review Committee, chaired by Ekiti State Governor Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, recently assessed around 30 candidates. Reports indicate that most NWC positions will be contested unopposed, highlighting a consensus-driven leadership selection process.
In a statement following the screening, Irwatoda referred to the APC as Nigeria’s most popular political party and highlighted ongoing improvements in democratic processes within the country.
Primary Election Schedule and Compliance with INEC Guidelines
Sources indicate that the convention will also ratify the primary election schedules for presidential, gubernatorial, and parliamentary races, following the guidelines set forth by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The stipulations dictate that political parties must conduct their primaries between April 23 and May 30, 2026, creating an essential timeline for strategic planning.
For the APC, this convention represents a critical platform to synchronize its electoral calendar, positioning the party for competitiveness in the 2027 elections while ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks.
Focus on Campaign Financing
Another significant issue set to be addressed is campaign financing, particularly for the presidential elections. Conducting a national campaign across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory demands substantial resources, making fundraising a priority for political parties, APC included.
Analysts observe that the financial demands of elections have escalated, driven by logistical, media, and security needs. The revised electoral framework has introduced new pressures, with the cap on campaign spending for presidential candidates raised to N10 billion. While this adjustment aims to reflect economic realities, experts warn it necessitates transparent and robust financing mechanisms to maintain public trust.
Officials within the NWC expect discussions at the convention to focus on sustainable funding strategies without compromising accountability. INEC has scheduled the presidential and national assembly elections for January 16, 2027, and the gubernatorial and state assembly elections for February 6, 2027.
Challenges of Influx and Internal Tensions
The recent influx of high-profile defectors into the APC raises sensitive concerns. Several governors and significant political figures have transitioned from opposition parties, enhancing the APC’s numerical strength. Notable new members include governors from Akwa Ibom, Delta, Bayelsa, and others.
This influx has fortified the APC’s majority in both chambers of the National Assembly, enhancing its legislative clout. However, there are growing apprehensions regarding the conditions under which these defectors joined, specifically allegations that some were promised automatic candidacy. The potential for internal dissatisfaction among long-term members who have built their careers within the party poses a significant challenge.
Debates surrounding the practice of automatic ticketing are anticipated to dominate the convention discussions, as the party navigates the need to integrate new members while rewarding loyalty and maintaining cohesion.
Digital Membership Registration Review
Among the agenda items is a review of the APC’s electronic membership registration system, with plans to submit the digital register to INEC. Delegates are expected to engage in in-depth dialogue regarding the progress of e-registration efforts and address any outstanding technical or administrative issues to ensure compliance with forthcoming election requirements.
The establishment of a comprehensive digital register containing verified membership data is viewed as vital for operational integrity and transparency within the party. This initiative is particularly timely given the 2026 Electoral Act mandates political parties to submit their updated digital membership registers to INEC by April 2, 2026. Failing to meet this deadline could jeopardize the party’s participation in the 2027 elections.
In early January 2026, APC National Public Relations Secretary, Felix Moruka, announced that the party had successfully registered over 7 million members through its e-registration initiative. This milestone underscores the party’s growing grassroots base and the positive reception of the digital initiative.
The upcoming convention will serve as a pivotal occasion for ratifying the digital register and outlining the party’s next steps, along with confirming other decisions made by the NWC and the National Executive Committee (NEC).
