A Professor of Political Science at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Jideofor Adibe, has warned that the ongoing wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) could eventually lead to internal implosion within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Adibe made this assertion while reacting to the defection of Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. The governor officially joined the ruling party on Tuesday, a move that was accompanied by assurances of support for a second term in office.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Adibe said the current political climate suggests that there are no strong or credible alternatives to the APC as preparations for the 2027 polls begin. He noted that this lack of viable opposition is one of the major reasons driving politicians into the ruling party.
According to him, the series of defections has created significant momentum for the APC, strengthening its position as the dominant political force in the country. He explained that many politicians are aligning with the party because it is perceived as the most secure platform for retaining power or advancing political ambitions.
Adibe, however, cautioned that this momentum could carry long-term consequences for the ruling party. He argued that as more politicians flood into the APC, it would become increasingly difficult to accommodate the varied interests, ambitions, and expectations of all members.
He stated that not all defectors would have their aspirations met within the party, especially as competition for tickets and political appointments intensifies. According to him, this situation could result in widespread dissatisfaction among party members.
The political scientist described this potential outcome as a “disease of implosion,” warning that internal conflicts could emerge once the initial excitement of defections fades. He explained that unresolved grievances and unmet ambitions could weaken party cohesion from within.
Adibe further stated that such dissatisfaction could create an opportunity for another political party to position itself as a credible alternative. He identified the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a party that could potentially benefit from this scenario if it can resolve its internal challenges.
According to him, the ADC could become a recruiting ground for disgruntled politicians who feel marginalized within the APC. He stressed that this would only be possible if the ADC succeeds in presenting itself as a serious and credible option to both politicians and voters.
Adibe explained that political momentum can shift rapidly once a party begins to attract notable defections. He noted that even a small number of defections, such as one or two governors or a handful of legislative seats, could significantly alter public perception.
He added that if the ADC were able to secure even a limited number of seats, it could create the impression of a growing alternative, which could then become self-perpetuating. According to him, such a development would encourage more politicians to reconsider their alignment with the APC.
Despite this possibility, Adibe emphasized that, for now, the APC continues to enjoy the momentum advantage. He said the absence of a strong opposition means that dissatisfied politicians currently have few realistic options outside the ruling party.
He concluded by stating that all existing opposition parties are grappling with one challenge or another, which has weakened their ability to compete effectively. Until a credible alternative emerges, he said, the APC is likely to continue attracting defectors, even as the risk of internal implosion quietly builds.
