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The Coalition of United Political Parties criticized the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu as the sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governors, labeling it a desperate move for power and a sign of panic.
In a statement released on Thursday night by its National Secretary, Peter Ameh, the coalition expressed that this decision has raised significant concerns among Nigerians.
During the APC National Summit, the Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum proposed President Tinubu’s adoption as the sole candidate, which Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State seconded.
This unprecedented action, occurring just two years into President Tinubu’s administration, reflects grave anxiety within the APC, coinciding with widespread public discontent regarding the tough economic conditions in the country.
Ameh stated that the selection of Tinubu as the exclusive candidate for 2027 does not truly represent the wishes of the Nigerian people, who will cast the votes that determine the election's result.
He suggested that the decision made by APC officials seems to arise from a fear of being rejected by voters facing serious economic hardships.
“This alarming move indicates the APC's disconnection from the populace and attempts to compromise the democratic process,” he noted.
The coalition emphasized that the events surrounding the 2023 elections were merely a precursor to the people's collective determination to resist any efforts to manipulate or tamper with the 2027 elections.
“The Nigerian electorate will be heard, and we will ensure our voices resonate through our votes.
We urge all Nigerians to stay alert and committed to safeguarding our democracy. The 2027 elections will be crucial for our country, and we will not permit the people's will to be undermined,” he concluded.
