The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is facing what insiders describe as an unprecedented internal revolt, as high-ranking politicians prepare to jump ship to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
No fewer than seven sitting APC governors, 19 former ministers, 27 senators, 65 serving members of the House of Representatives, and 10 former governors are reportedly in advanced talks to defect from the party amid growing disenchantment with the Tinubu administration.
Multiple sources familiar with the talks say discussions have reached a “critical stage,” with a public announcement expected within the next few months. If confirmed, this would represent the largest mass political defection in Nigeria since the collapse of the PDP’s dominance in 2015 — and could reshape the country’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The APC has lost its soul,” one lawmaker disclosed under anonymity. “There’s no more vision, no more discipline, and no leadership. We’re tired of defending failure.”
Under President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria has faced mounting economic pressure, with inflation at historic highs, the naira in freefall, and an alarming spike in the cost of living. Critics within the APC argue that the administration has become insulated from public suffering, with key decisions driven more by loyalty than competence.
“There is no internal democracy in the APC anymore,” said another party stalwart. “Everything is about personal interest and power retention. That is not what Nigerians voted for.”
The ADC — once seen as a minor political force — is now emerging as a rallying point for disenchanted politicians. Party insiders say it is repositioning itself as a credible third force, attracting not just political heavyweights but also technocrats and civil society figures frustrated with the country’s two dominant parties.
Observers say the looming defection could trigger a broader political realignment, particularly if the ADC succeeds in building a strong coalition of defectors. While some political analysts are cautious about the ADC’s ability to absorb such a large influx, others argue that its fresh structure offers fertile ground for reform-minded politicians.
“There’s a hunger for something different,” said political analyst Bisi Adeyemi. “If the ADC plays its cards right, this could be the beginning of a new political era.”
The APC has yet to issue an official response to the reports, but party insiders say frantic efforts are underway to hold crisis meetings and dissuade key members from leaving.
As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the reported exodus will mark a true turning point — or just another episode in the country’s cyclical political drama.
