CUPP Condemns Tinubu’s Sole Candidacy as APC’s 2027 Flagbearer, Warns of Rejection at the Polls

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has strongly criticized the decision by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to adopt President Bola Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, describing the move as a desperate and undemocratic attempt to tighten the party’s grip on power. In a strongly worded statement released by CUPP’s national secretary, Peter Ameh, the coalition warned that Nigerians will decisively reject what it called an arrogant disregard for democratic norms.

According to CUPP, the early endorsement—coming just two years into President Tinubu’s tenure—reflects growing internal apprehension within the APC. Rather than signaling confidence, the coalition believes the move reveals a fear of electoral defeat due to increasing public discontent with the nation’s economic condition.

“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,” Ameh stated. “This decision by elected officials on APC’s platform appears to stem from fear of rejection by the electorate, who are grappling with severe economic challenges.”

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Widespread Disillusionment with Governance

CUPP’s criticism comes against the backdrop of intense economic hardship and widespread public frustration with the cost of living, insecurity, and unemployment. Many Nigerians have been outspoken about their disappointment with the government’s policies, particularly following the removal of fuel subsidies and the rapid devaluation of the naira, which have drastically impacted daily life for millions.

The coalition highlighted this socio-economic climate as proof that the APC leadership is out of touch with ordinary citizens. “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,” the CUPP statement read.

CUPP further warned that the current trajectory mirrors the political atmosphere leading up to the 2023 general elections, which were marked by allegations of manipulation, vote-buying, and public dissatisfaction with electoral outcomes.

Call for Vigilance and Resistance

In its statement, CUPP urged Nigerians to prepare for what it called a “defining moment” in the country’s democratic evolution. With the 2027 election cycle on the horizon, the coalition is mobilizing citizens to remain alert, resist electoral manipulation, and assert their power through the ballot box.

“We wish to make it clear that the events of the 2023 elections were merely a precursor to the collective resolve of the people,” said Ameh. “We stand united in our commitment to resist any attempt to manipulate, steal or rig the 2027 elections. The Nigerian electorate will not be silenced.”

CUPP reiterated its dedication to ensuring that democracy in Nigeria is preserved and deepened. It called on civil society organizations, political stakeholders, and citizens to reject what it views as a pre-emptive coronation of President Tinubu, arguing that true democracy requires open competition, robust debate, and genuine voter choice.

Democracy at a Crossroads

The CUPP’s stance underscores a growing unease among opposition groups about what they perceive as creeping authoritarianism and political monopolization. The decision to sideline internal party democracy in favor of an uncontested endorsement of Tinubu is, according to critics, part of a broader pattern of political dominance that threatens to erode Nigeria’s fragile democratic gains.

“The 2027 elections will be a defining moment for our nation, and we will not allow the will of the people to be subverted,” CUPP concluded, signaling that the coalition is ready to challenge the APC’s narrative both politically and legally, if necessary.

As Nigeria navigates a complex mix of economic recovery and political recalibration, the battle lines for 2027 are already being drawn. While the APC moves to solidify its leadership under Tinubu, opposition voices like CUPP are galvanizing resistance, setting the stage for a contentious and possibly transformative electoral showdown.