2027: APC faces internal battles in Ogun, Lagos, Delta as succession battles begin

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is witnessing rising internal contestations in several states as the party shifts focus from its national convention to preparations for the 2027 general election.

The APC held its national convention last weekend at Eagle Square in Abuja, where party leaders and supporters celebrated what they described as a demonstration of unity and organisational strength.

The convention also adopted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the party’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

With the convention concluded, attention has turned to state-level primaries, where several internal rivalries are emerging across the country.

Political observers say the introduction of digital membership registers and tighter timelines for primaries has pushed factions within the party to begin early mobilisation.

In Ogun State, succession politics is gaining momentum as Governor Dapo Abiodun approaches the final phase of his second term.

Senator Solomon Adeola representing Ogun West and chairman of the Senate committee on appropriations, is widely seen as a leading contender for the governorship race.

Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has intensified grassroots political activities and recently mobilised supporters during local congresses in Yewa south.

Supporters from Ogun West argue that the governorship should rotate to the district, which has never produced a governor since the creation of the state in 1976.

Adeola’s ambition has reportedly received backing from Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, senate leader.

However, political elites from the Egba and Ijebu zones are said to be uneasy about Adeola’s political transition from Lagos State to Ogun politics.

Sources say some stakeholders are working to unite behind a home-grown candidate to counter his growing influence.

There is also speculation that Governor Abiodun may support alternative contenders such as Adesola Elegbeji or the Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi. Despite the manoeuvring, insiders say Adeola may soon formally declare his governorship ambition.

In Lagos State, political calculations ahead of 2027 are also generating intense speculation.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will complete his second term in 2027, prompting discussions about potential successors.

One of the names attracting attention is Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, following calls by youth groups urging him to enter the race.

Other prominent figures being mentioned include Senator Tokunbo Abiru representing Lagos East, and Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff to the president.

Obafemi Hamzat, deputy governor of Lagos, and Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, have also been linked with possible ambitions.

Political observers say the eventual candidate will likely emerge after consultations with the influential Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC).

In Delta State, recent political developments have created new power dynamics within the APC.

The defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and several lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC has reshaped the party’s internal hierarchy.

Observers say the development has weakened the faction aligned with Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, former deputy senate president.

Although the party leadership insists that recent congresses were peaceful, some stakeholders have alleged that delegate lists were harmonised privately rather than through open voting.

Analysts say the unfolding rivalries in Ogun, Lagos, and Delta could significantly influence the APC’s internal politics and electoral strategy ahead of the 2027 general election.