Nigeria political landscape shifts ahead of 2027 elections

Nigeria's political landscape is shifting ahead of the 2027 elections. APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda reported that over 10 million beneficiaries of the government's ₦75,000 conditional cash transfer programme lack access to phones, television, or social media, limiting their ability to participate in public policy discussions. Yilwatda defended the removal of the fuel subsidy, arguing that the savings fund essential infrastructure projects and social interventions, warning that restoring the subsidy could worsen poverty and halt development in Northern Nigeria.

In a significant political move, several African Democratic Congress (ADC) House of Assembly candidates from Zamfara, Plateau, Taraba, and Jigawa states have defected to the APC, pledging support for President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) is facing internal friction. Six governorship candidates in the North-East have rejected the appointment of Engr. Babachir Lawal as the regional leader, citing a lack of consultation. Additionally, the NDC is experiencing disputes with support groups, such as the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, regarding the registration and independence of political structures. In response to these shifts, Peter Obi of the NDC has promised to restore the fuel subsidy if elected, provided corruption in the sector is first eliminated.