As the 2027 general elections approach, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is intensifying its recruitment of politicians from opposition parties, but former Senate President Bukola Saraki has made it clear that not all overtures will succeed.
The latest target was Adamawa Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, who was courted by Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule during a book launch in Yola chronicling Fintiri’s political achievements. Sule described Fintiri as a “progressive governor” whose leadership aligns with APC ideals and even jokingly brandished President Bola Tinubu’s trademark cap, hinting at a possible defection.
Saraki, however, rejected the overture, defending Fintiri’s leadership under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and asserting that the invitation was motivated more by opposition losses than genuine appeal of the ruling party. “Our governor and his party are performing, and that’s why you’re trying to recruit us,” he said.
The remarks come amid a wave of defections to the APC, including governors from Kano, Plateau, and Taraba states. But Bala Na’Allah, former Deputy Senate Majority Leader and APC chieftain, cautioned that political migration alone does not guarantee electoral success. “These defections are made by people who hold authority in their states. To a large extent, what they do in their states will determine the followership,” he said.
Civil society groups have also weighed in. The Campaign for Equal Rights and Opportunities for all Nigerians (CERON) warned that defections are not synonymous with voter endorsement. Its secretary, Francis Odiir, argued that internal crises within the PDP, rather than genuine support for APC policies, are driving the movements. “The truth is, they are running from a crumbling house to seek safe haven in uncertain times,” he said.
Meanwhile, APC has denied claims that civil servants are being forced to participate in its ongoing electronic membership registration, describing such allegations as “false and baseless.” Party officials say the drive is voluntary, highlighting that over seven million Nigerians have already registered online, with a target of an additional five million before February 8.
APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda emphasised that the party’s growing strength stems from grassroots engagement, inclusive governance, and economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, rather than defections alone. “Our focus remains on national development and democratic consolidation,” he said.
As 2027 draws closer, political observers note that while defections create headlines, voter sentiment will ultimately be shaped by governance performance, economic conditions, and public confidence in political institutions—not just high-profile political migrations.
2027 Elections: Saraki Snubs APC Recruitment Attempt as Defections Spark Debate
