The All Progressives Congress (APC) says it is in advanced discussions with at least four incumbent governors from opposition parties who are expected to defect to the ruling party before the end of the year.

The move, according to the party, is part of its broader strategy to consolidate power and expand its political footprint ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The APC’s National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, disclosed this in an interview, naming the governors of Plateau, Taraba, Rivers, and Abia states as those being courted by the party.

“It is a possibility that the Plateau governor will join us, likewise his Taraba counterpart. We are also looking forward to receiving the Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State in our midst,” Arodiogbu stated.

He said discussions with the governors had reached an “advanced stage,” hinting that the defections could take place in the coming weeks, ahead of the party’s national congresses.

“These are all high possibilities. We expect that to happen before the end of this year. Once they do, it will reaffirm that the APC remains Nigeria’s most dominant and organised political platform,” he added.

Arodiogbu attributed the growing appeal of the ruling party to its reform-driven policies and inclusive leadership style, which, according to him, continue to attract influential political figures nationwide.

“The reality is that the APC has become a home for all progressives. Our growth is not only in numbers but in the quality of leadership. Many political actors now see the APC as the party that provides stability and direction for Nigeria’s democracy,” he said.

The APC chieftain further noted that the National Chairman of the party had maintained an open-door policy, encouraging all like-minded politicians to join and contribute to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The National Chairman has made it clear that the APC welcomes everyone of goodwill who shares in the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Arodiogbu emphasized.

He expressed confidence that the expected defections would further strengthen the APC ahead of the 2025 congresses and bolster its chances in the 2027 polls.