By Kamal Hammajo | August 28th, 2025
Nigeria’s political scene over the past day has been dominated by three big stories: the ruling APC’s consolidation of power, renewed calls for electoral reform, and fresh tensions with organised labour. Together, they highlight a country already gearing up for the 2027 elections.
APC Balances Unity and Democracy
The All Progressives Congress (APC) continues to project strength around President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Yet, in a careful balancing act, party leaders have insisted the 2027 presidential ticket is still “open” to other aspirants. The message is clear: while Tinubu is the favourite, the party wants to maintain an image of internal democracy.
New APC Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda has also made it clear he will build on the structures left by Abdullahi Ganduje, signalling continuity rather than upheaval. For now, the ruling party’s priority is stability as it looks to entrench itself further before the next general elections.
Jonathan’s Reform Message
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has stepped back into the spotlight, urging reforms to Nigeria’s electoral system. He called for changes in how the INEC Chair is appointed and criticised the culture of political defections that erodes party ideology. His intervention is a reminder that electoral credibility remains one of the country’s most pressing issues.
For many Nigerians, Jonathan’s message resonates with growing frustration over weak institutions and the endless recycling of politicians across party lines. It puts pressure on both ruling and opposition parties to go beyond rhetoric and deliver meaningful reforms.
Labour Disputes Turn Political
While the current dispute with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is fundamentally about wages and funding, it has clear political implications. Government officials are locked in high-stakes talks with union leaders, aware that a prolonged strike could energise discontent among students, parents, and middle-class professionals.
In Edo State, tensions are also high as labour leaders accuse the State Government of trying to impose a Caretaker Committee on the NLC. What looks like an internal union matter has political undertones, testing the boundaries of State power and raising questions about political interference in civil organisations.
Foreign Policy and Identity Politics
Adding another layer, the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria has warned the Federal Government against deepening ties with Israel amid Middle East tensions. Though framed as foreign policy, the statement carries weight in domestic politics, especially across the northern States where religious identity often shapes political alignments.
The Bigger Picture
• APC is consolidating while trying to appear open to competition.
• Jonathan’s reform push reminds the political class that institutional credibility remains a priority for Nigerians.
• Labour unrest is no longer just about salaries, it is becoming a political flashpoint.
• Identity and foreign policy continue to influence Nigeria’s internal political landscape.
Conclusion
The last 24 hours have shown how politics in Nigeria is not just about party manoeuvring but also about reform, labour, and identity. With the 2027 elections drawing closer, the ruling party seeks to project strength and continuity, while reform advocates and labour leaders raise uncomfortable questions about fairness, accountability, and governance.
The battles may still be two years away, but the contest for Nigeria’s future is already taking shape.
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