The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has condemned the recent endorsement of President Bola Tinubu as the All Progressives Congress (APC) sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election, calling it a desperate and premature move.
In a statement released Thursday night, CUPP National Secretary Peter Ameh said the decision—announced during the APC Renewed Hope Agenda Summit—reflects anxiety within the ruling party, not public confidence.
“The motion at the APC National Summit, where Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, moved to adopt President Bola Tinubu as the sole candidate for 2027—seconded by Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani—has triggered widespread concern among Nigerians,” the statement read.
Ameh argued that the early endorsement, just two years into President Tinubu’s term, points to a disconnect between the APC leadership and the public, who are facing severe economic challenges.
He added that the decision “does not reflect the will of the Nigerian people, whose votes will ultimately decide the next president.”
CUPP warned that the endorsement could be viewed as an attempt to suppress internal party competition and stifle democracy.
“Nigerians see this move as a troubling sign of the APC’s growing detachment from citizens and a threat to the democratic process,” Ameh stated.
Referring to the 2023 elections, he said they served as a warning of the public’s growing resolve to hold leaders accountable.
“We stand firm in our commitment to resist any form of electoral manipulation or rigging in 2027,” he added.
CUPP urged Nigerians to stay vigilant, stating that the upcoming 2027 elections will be pivotal for the country’s future.
“We must defend our democracy and ensure the voice of the people is not silenced,” the statement concluded.