Mass Defections Loom in APC as Disqualified Aspirants Eye Exit Ahead of INEC Deadline

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is staring at a major crisis of mass defections as aggrieved aspirants and long-serving members, angered by alleged unfair disqualifications, weigh their options ahead of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deadline.

Discontent is spreading rapidly across several states following controversial screening exercises that many believe were manipulated to favour anointed candidates. According to Sun, prominent figures who have invested heavily in the party are feeling sidelined, with party insiders warning of an impending exodus.

Among those rumoured to be considering their options are former Ministers under the Tinubu administration. In Oyo State, Adelabu; in Bauchi, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; and former Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who recently criticised the APC’s direction, are being closely watched. Their potential departure could trigger more high-profile exits.

In Rivers State, Tein Jack-Rich, a major financial backer of the APC for 13 years, was disqualified in favour of newer entrants, leaving his supporters furious. Similar stories are playing out elsewhere, with Professor Ali Pantami, Senator Ned Nwoko, and others reportedly frustrated by the process.

A party source in Abuja captured the mood: “The longer these grievances fester, the more attractive opposition platforms become. You can’t keep sidelining people who have built the party for over a decade and expect loyalty.”

With the Federal High Court’s recent ruling extending the window for parties to submit membership registers to INEC until September, disqualified aspirants now have a clearer path to defect and still meet electoral requirements. Analysts say the APC leadership must act fast to stem the tide or risk significant damage to its structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.