The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has strongly criticised the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 general elections. The group described the decision as a sign of political desperation and panic, coming just two years into President Tinubu’s first term in office.
In a statement signed by CUPP’s National Secretary, Peter Ameh, on Thursday night, the coalition said the endorsement has raised serious questions among Nigerians about the ruling party’s commitment to democracy and internal party freedom.
The endorsement, which was moved by the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, who also serves as Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum, and seconded by Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, took place at the APC National Summit. CUPP said the move sends a troubling message to Nigerians who are already under pressure from the current economic difficulties.
According to the coalition, many Nigerians are interpreting the early endorsement as a sign that the APC is afraid of its popularity slipping due to what they described as “harsh economic realities” affecting the people.
CUPP warned that the decision to adopt President Tinubu as the sole candidate does not represent the interest of the Nigerian public. Ameh said, “The adoption of Tinubu as the sole candidate for 2027 does not reflect the will of the Nigerian people, whose votes will ultimately determine the outcome of the election.”
He accused the APC of losing touch with the suffering of ordinary Nigerians, saying many people across the country are not impressed with how things are going under the current administration.
The coalition also linked the decision to a possible fear of rejection at the polls in 2027, saying it looks like a calculated move to block internal competition and silence dissenting voices within the ruling party.
Ameh added, “Nigerians across the country view this move as a troubling indication of the APC’s disconnect from the masses and an attempt to undermine the democratic process.”
He reminded Nigerians that the 2023 elections were just a beginning, and warned against any attempt to manipulate or rig the 2027 elections. CUPP assured Nigerians that they would resist any attempt to silence the people’s will.
“We wish to make it clear that the events of the 2023 elections were merely a precursor to the collective resolve of the people. We stand united in our commitment to resist any attempts to manipulate, steal, or rig the 2027 elections.”
The CUPP urged all Nigerians to stay alert and protect the nation’s democracy, stressing that the next general election would be a major test for the country’s future.
“The Nigerian electorate will not be silenced, and we will ensure that our voices are heard through the power of our votes. The 2027 elections will be a defining moment for our nation,” Ameh said.
