Coalition Threatened As South-South APC Unites, Vows to Give Tinubu Bloc Vote

Coalition Threatened As South-South APC Unites, Vows to Give Tinubu Bloc Vote

 

….Calls mount for Rivers, Bayelsa to join APC for bloc vote

 

 

As political alliances continue to shift ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, the South-South geopolitical zone is emerging as a decisive force, rallying behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in a move that is reshaping the nation’s political landscape.

 

This growing support for Tinubu is posing strong resistance to opposition coalitions seeking to challenge the incumbent.

 

Prominent political stakeholders across the South-South have thrown their weight behind Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, signaling a significant realignment in a region long considered a stronghold of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

 

In a surprising twist, the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has endorsed Governor Eno—a member of the PDP—for a second term, citing his performance and governance style.

The move underscores an emerging spirit of bipartisan cooperation aimed at strengthening the region’s influence at the federal level. Political observers note that this alignment is less about party loyalty and more about strategic positioning to secure federal presence, infrastructure investment, and political appointments.

The South-South zone, comprising Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Cross River, and Edo states, has historically voted en masse for the PDP. However, with the 2027 polls approaching, political leaders appear to be uniting under the APC umbrella to present a consolidated front. This effort is largely championed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, whose political clout and proximity to President Tinubu have made him a central figure in the new power equation.

“The South-South is ready to speak with one voice in 2027,” a prominent APC chieftain said. “We have seen the benefits of political alignment with the center. The region cannot afford to remain in opposition and miss out on national dividends.”

As part of this consolidation strategy, key figures are urging Rivers and Bayelsa—two traditional PDP strongholds—to align with the APC. Stakeholders argue that a united South-South under the ruling party would ensure the delivery of bloc votes to Tinubu and strengthen the region’s bargaining power in Abuja.

The endorsement of Governor Umo Eno by the APC in Akwa Ibom is one of the most unexpected developments. Despite representing a different party, Eno has garnered support from the APC due to his emphasis on grassroots development, infrastructure renewal, and inclusive governance.

“This is not about party politics,” said an APC leader in the state. “It’s about what’s best for Akwa Ibom. Governor Eno has shown leadership and vision. Supporting his re-election is in the best interest of the people.”

Analysts believe the emerging Tinubu-Akpabio-Eno alliance could prove pivotal in shaping the 2027 elections. A bloc vote from the South-South would not only boost Tinubu’s re-election chances but also tilt the balance of power in favor of the APC in regions traditionally resistant to the ruling party.

However, the movement is not without its challenges. Deep-seated political rivalries, historical grievances, and internal party disputes could hinder full unification. The task of convincing PDP loyalists in Rivers and Bayelsa to shift allegiance will require strategic negotiations and tangible assurances.

Despite these hurdles, the South-South appears poised for a political evolution. With vast natural resources, a strategic economic position, and a youthful population, the region is increasingly aware of its leverage. Political unity, leaders argue, is the pathway to unlocking development opportunities and securing a fair share of national resources.

As Nigeria moves closer to another critical election year, the South-South’s growing alignment with President Tinubu and the APC sets the stage for what could be a defining moment in the country’s democratic journey. Whether this momentum leads to lasting gains or further polarization remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: the South-South is no longer content with playing from the sidelines.