As the race toward the 2027 general elections intensifies, Nigeria’s political landscape is witnessing a wave of defections with several high-profile politicians crossing over to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Below are five prominent figures who have recently pitched their tents with the APC and the reasons behind their moves:

1. Ned Nwoko

Senator Ned Nwoko, representing the Delta North Senatorial District, officially joined the APC in early 2025.

The lawmaker, who was previously a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), cited internal divisions within the PDP and a desire to help the APC “take over Delta State” in the next elections.

His defection was welcomed by APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who described Nwoko as a “strategic asset” to the party’s South-South expansion plans.

2. Shehu Sani

Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani made headlines in February 2025 when he re-joined the APC after years of criticism of the party’s leadership.

Speaking at a rally in Kaduna, Sani said that the political circumstances that led to his exit in 2018 had changed, and he was returning to contribute to “progressive governance.”

His return was celebrated as a major reconciliation move for the Kaduna chapter of the APC ahead of 2027.

3. Sheriff Oborevwori

Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, defected from the PDP to the APC in April 2025.

The move was described as unanimous among PDP leaders in Delta, and motivated by a goal to enhance state unity, security and development under what he termed a “viable” political platform.

4. Umo Eno

Governor of Akwa Ibom, Umo Eno, moved from the PDP to APC in June 2025.

He emphasized that he was “joining from a position of strength” and aligned his switch with support for the federal government’s reform agenda and stronger national alignment.

5. Peter Mbah

Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, defected from the PDP to the APC in October 2025.

The move is significant as Enugu had been a PDP stronghold for decades. He framed his defection as a collective decision by his political family and a strategic re-alignment for development and national relevance.

From the South-South to the North-West, defections into the APC are reshaping Nigeria’s political map ahead of 2027.

While some see these moves as pragmatic political strategy, others view them as signs of weakening opposition structures.

Regardless, one thing is clear that APC is tightening its grip as politicians realign for the battles ahead. (Daily Sun)