APC governors say they don't need Wike for 2027 win, warn of party rupture
APC governors believe they can secure the 2027 presidential victory without FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, setting the stage for a serious rupture in Nigeria's ruling party, according to political analyst Ilyasu Gadu. The governors, including Progressive Governors Forum leader Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, fear Wike might employ similar tactics to weaken APC as he did to the PDP and have rejected his Rainbow Coalition, which fields senatorial candidates across multiple states.
Gadu explains that APC faithful have never accommodated Wike despite his instrumental role in President Tinubu's 2023 election victory, dismissing his contribution as mere happenstance. The governors now express confidence in their ability to maintain party unity and win elections independently, while noting Wike's continued utility to the president for securing votes in certain regions. The analyst warns that current positioning indicates blurring lines and inevitable complications as parties prepare for the 2027 electoral cycle.
This growing estrangement between Wike and APC leadership could significantly alter the party's internal dynamics, candidate selection processes, and overall election strategy as Nigeria approaches the next general election.