APC Sanctuary: How the Ruling Party Became Nigeria’s Governance Virus – Otunba Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo

By Otunba (Dr.) Babatunde Olushola Senbanjo (BOS)

When the All Progressives Congress (APC) came to power, it rode on a wave of populist promises, chief among them an uncompromising war against corruption and a commitment to institutional integrity. Years later, that façade has all but collapsed.

What remains, critics argue, is not a political party driven by a coherent progressive ideology, but a strategic vehicle for political power and its preservation—one that, according to prominent political figures such as Peter Obi, can absolve politicians of their troubled pasts the moment they defect to the ruling party.

For years, a troubling pattern has emerged in Nigerian politics: opposition figures facing intense scrutiny or legal battles over alleged financial misconduct sometimes find themselves welcomed into the APC, after which the political pressure against them appears to diminish. The high-profile defections of former governors and ministers who have faced corruption allegations have repeatedly raised questions about the party’s commitment to a consistent and impartial anti-corruption agenda.

Instead of being perceived solely as an instrument for enforcing accountability, the party structure has increasingly been criticised as a political shield for individuals facing allegations, reducing the war against corruption to a tool for political coercion, selective prosecution and recruitment.

Beyond concerns about the conduct of some of its members, the quality and credibility of leadership within the APC have also generated serious national debate. Nigeria has witnessed controversies surrounding the authenticity and validity of the primary, secondary and tertiary educational credentials of some high-ranking public officials.

In a nation blessed with highly educated, talented and accomplished professionals, critics argue that the elevation of individuals whose educational credentials remain subjects of controversy undermines the principles of meritocracy, transparency and accountability.

Such controversies, whether ultimately proven or disproven, underscore the importance of rigorous verification and transparency in public office. A country cannot build strong institutions when questions about the qualifications of those entrusted with critical responsibilities are allowed to linger without satisfactory resolution.

The consequences of weak leadership and institutional failure are visible across several sectors of Nigerian society. High inflation, economic instability, inadequate infrastructure and concerns over the erosion of democratic institutions have left many citizens exhausted and disillusioned.

Rather than adequately addressing these concerns, critics contend that the ruling party has increasingly relied on political dominance and aggressive mobilisation. In some instances, local party operatives have reportedly suggested that citizens who do not support the ruling party are unwelcome in their own communities.

Such rhetoric is dangerous in a democracy. Political allegiance should never determine a citizen’s right to live, work or participate freely in his or her community.

The growing dominance of one political party also raises legitimate concerns about the health of Nigeria’s democratic system. A democracy thrives on competition, accountability, dissent and the availability of credible alternatives. When political power becomes excessively concentrated, the institutions designed to check government excesses can gradually become weakened.

As the 2027 general elections approach, Nigerians face a critical choice. The election is not merely another political contest; it is an opportunity for citizens to assess the performance, character and record of those seeking to govern them.

A country cannot thrive when corruption is normalised, accountability is selective, and competence is treated as secondary to political loyalty.

Nigerians must therefore reject the normalisation of political impunity. The 2027 elections provide a constitutional avenue for citizens to demand accountability and, through their votes, reject any political system they believe has failed them.

The electorate must look beyond social media propaganda, intimidation and partisan rhetoric. They must examine records, scrutinise candidates and make informed choices based on competence, integrity, accountability and the overall interest of the nation.

For Nigeria to heal, the culture of impunity must be confronted—and the ballot box remains one of the most powerful constitutional tools available to the people.

The choice in 2027 is ultimately Nigeria’s.