APC: When politics becomes more important than the country

The All Progressives Congress (APC) was formed in 2013 as a coalition of opposition parties—Action Congress of Nigeria, Congress for Progressive Change, All Nigeria Peoples Party, and part of the All Progressives Grand Alliance—united against the long-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The APC criticized the PDP for corruption, weak leadership, poor elections, and failure to address insecurity, with Bola Tinubu, former Lagos State governor, emerging as a key figure in the opposition movement. In 2015, the APC achieved a historic victory, defeating incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan and electing Muhammadu Buhari, who promised institutional reforms, improved security, and economic growth. However, Buhari’s presidency saw worsening insecurity, including kidnappings, terror attacks, and banditry, alongside economic decline, inflation, and a weakening naira. Democratic institutions also weakened, notably when Buhari suspended Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen before the 2019 election, setting a precedent for political interference. Tinubu’s 2023 presidency raised expectations for stronger federalism and democratic governance, given his long-standing advocacy for these ideals. However, concerns quickly arose as political infighting overshadowed governance, particularly during APC party primaries, which were marred by allegations of manipulation, chaotic voting, and disputed results. Videos circulated online showing officials inflating vote counts, while aspirants accused the party of rigging elections. The current focus on political control—such as managing alliances and elections—has deepened public frustration, especially as Nigerians face rising prices, unemployment, and insecurity. Many now believe the APC has failed to address the country’s crises, instead prioritizing internal party power struggles. The ongoing primaries have further eroded trust, with complaints of imposition and lack of transparency dominating discussions. Analysts argue that the APC’s shift from opposition reformer to ruling party has exposed its true priorities, leaving Nigerians disillusioned. While Tinubu’s leadership was expected to break from Buhari’s authoritarian tendencies, early signs suggest a continuation of political dominance over governance, raising questions about the party’s commitment to national progress.