A wave of political defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is largely motivated by fear of losing the 2027 general elections and a desire to avoid anti-corruption scrutiny, according to Professor Jonah Onuoha of Taraba State University, Jalingo.
Onuoha, who is also Director of the Centre for American Studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), described the defections as evidence that many Nigerian politicians prioritize personal interests over ideology.
“These politicians are seeking a platform where they can win in 2027 and escape scrutiny from agencies like the EFCC. Joining the ruling party is seen as a survival strategy, a way to protect their interests and escape accountability,” he said.
The political scientist expressed concern that the trend could further weaken the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“While the PDP faces internal challenges, dedicated members could resolve these issues before 2027.”
“However, the ongoing exodus to the APC will undoubtedly impact the party’s chances in presidential, governorship, and legislative elections,” Onuoha warned.
He cited the recent defection of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and the entire PDP structure in the state as a significant blow to the opposition.
Dr. Chinedu Ejezie, Senior Lecturer in Political Science at UNN, also criticized the reasoning behind the defections.
He argued that good governance and electoral success are not dependent on being in the ruling party.
“Some governors claim they join the APC to ‘connect to the centre,’ but all 36 states have continued receiving federal allocations since President Bola Tinubu took office in May 2023. There is no evidence of discrimination against opposition-led states,” he said.
Ejezie highlighted opposition governors like Alex Otti of Abia State (Labour Party), Charles Soludo of Anambra State (APGA), and Seyi Makinde of Oyo State (PDP) as examples of leaders performing well without switching to the ruling party.
“Even some APC governors are struggling, showing that political alignment with the centre does not guarantee good governance.”
“What truly matters is effective management of resources and judicious use of federal allocations,” he concluded.
