CUPP to Tinubu: Defecting Politicians Bring No Value to APC

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his reaction to recent defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying those switching sides offer no real political value ahead of the 2027 elections.

CUPP’s response follows Tinubu’s remarks touting the growing strength of the APC, which now boasts about 70 senators in the National Assembly and 23 state governors.

The president had recently projected confidence amid the rising momentum of a coalition of opposition forces.

However, CUPP, in a statement issued by its National Secretary, Chief Peter Ameh, said Tinubu’s statements reflect a leader unsettled by a mounting political challenge.

“The President’s superficial display of strength should not be taken seriously,” Ameh said. “What we are witnessing is not confidence, but apprehension disguised as bravado.”

The coalition argued that the recent wave of defections to the APC amounts to little more than political theatre, as most of the defectors were elected into office through the influence and platforms of opposition parties.

“Those switching sides lack significant political weight. Their victories were largely due to the backing of credible opposition leaders, not personal electoral clout,” the statement read.

CUPP also maintained that the president is on shaky ground politically and that the continued consolidation of opposition groups poses a significant threat to his re-election prospects.

“The defections do not translate into votes or public goodwill. The truth is, President Tinubu is standing on increasingly unstable political ground. There is no hiding place in 2027,” the coalition warned.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to building a united opposition platform capable of challenging the APC’s dominance, adding that the electorate is more politically aware and no longer swayed by mass defections.

CUPP’s comments come amid renewed political realignments and rising tensions as parties and coalitions gear up for the next general election cycle.