By OBSERVERS TIMES.
Reports indicate that several opposition governors, previously rumored to be considering a switch to the All Progressives Congress (APC), are now reconsidering their plans. This shift comes amidst evolving political dynamics and efforts by opposition parties to stem the tide of defections.
The recent high-profile defections of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa to the APC had fueled speculation of a mass exodus from opposition ranks.
APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje further fueled these rumors, claiming more opposition leaders were poised to join the ruling party.
However, governors Peter Mbah (Enugu), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun), among others, are reportedly having second thoughts. Sources suggest that internal developments within their respective parties, such as the influx of former Labour Party members into the PDP in Enugu, have altered the political landscape and solidified their positions.
Governor Lawal of Zamfara has explicitly stated his commitment to the PDP, while Mutfwang’s close allies cite ideological differences with the APC as a reason for his continued allegiance. Abia State Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party also dismissed any plans to defect, emphasizing his party’s strength and the merits of remaining in opposition. Governor Adeleke of Osun State similarly declared his loyalty to the PDP, labeling defection rumors as “fake news.”
Opposition parties, including the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the Labour Party (LP), have downplayed the significance of the defections, arguing they reflect political opportunism rather than a genuine shift in national sentiment. They maintain that the APC’s hold on power is not guaranteed, especially in the face of persistent economic hardship and insecurity.
Some political analysts, however, express concern over the opposition’s disarray, with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) suggesting a potential merger between the APC and PDP due to their perceived similarities in governance. Calls for a united opposition front have emerged, with some arguing that only a strong coalition can effectively challenge the APC’s dominance in the 2027 elections.
