Political tensions in Nigeria continue to rise as Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), claimed that President Bola Tinubu has strategically positioned allies across key institutions to secure his re-election in 2027.
In a Facebook post on Monday, Igbokwe asserted that Tinubu had begun planning his second-term bid even before assuming office, ensuring that loyalists occupied strategic positions to support his administration’s continuity.
“Before he even stepped into Aso Villa, he had started planning for 2027. His challengers may not know that the Apamaku had already planted his men everywhere,” Igbokwe wrote.
His comments have fueled concerns among opposition figures who argue that the ruling party is suppressing political competition. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused Tinubu’s administration of orchestrating leadership disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) to weaken the opposition ahead of the next general election.
Political analysts have observed recent internal crises within opposition parties, citing unresolved factional disputes in the PDP and LP. While some believe these conflicts stem from internal party struggles, others suggest that external interference from the ruling party could be a factor.
Despite the accusations, the APC has maintained that Tinubu’s government remains focused on governance and economic reforms rather than electioneering. Presidential spokespersons have not yet responded to Igbokwe’s remarks, but party insiders suggest that the administration is working to consolidate its political influence while addressing national challenges.
As Nigeria heads toward the 2027 elections, the political landscape remains highly contested, with both the ruling party and opposition figures seeking to shape the narrative around leadership and governance.
