The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has criticized the recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections by All Progressives Congress (APC) governors, describing it as a desperate attempt to cling to power and a clear sign of panic.
In a statement released Thursday night, CUPP National Secretary Peter Ameh expressed concern over the development, stating that it has alarmed many Nigerians.
“The recent motion at the APC National Summit, where the Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum proposed President Bola Tinubu as the sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election—seconded by Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State—has sparked serious concerns,” he said.
Ameh noted that such a move, coming just two years into President Tinubu’s first term, highlights growing anxiety within the APC amid widespread public dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s current economic struggles.
“This endorsement does not represent the will of the Nigerian people, who are the ultimate deciders in any election,” he stated.
He added that the decision appears driven by fear of electoral rejection, given the harsh economic realities confronting the population.
“Nigerians see this as a troubling sign of the APC’s disconnection from the realities on ground and an attempt to subvert the democratic process,” Ameh said.
He further warned that the CUPP is prepared to resist any efforts to manipulate or rig the 2027 elections.
“We are united in our resolve to defend democracy. The Nigerian electorate will not be silenced. The 2027 elections will be a defining moment for our nation, and we will ensure that the people’s will prevails,” he concluded.