10 States APC May Never Win — Even With Sitting Governors (FULL LIST)

As Nigeria’s political landscape gradually tilts toward the 2027 elections, the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is increasingly being tested across several regions. While the party controls the federal government and boasts several sitting governors, electoral success at the state level remains far from guaranteed.

In many parts of the country, deep-rooted political loyalties, internal party crises, shifting alliances, and rising opposition movements suggest that APC could face stiff resistance in at least 20 states — even where it currently holds power or enjoys elite backing.

1. Kano State
Kano remains one of the most politically volatile states in Nigeria. The influence of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso makes it extremely difficult for APC to dominate. Even with political defections, Kano’s voting bloc is fiercely independent.

2. Zamfara State
Zamfara’s political terrain is shaped by insecurity and shifting loyalties. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) retains strong grassroots structures, making APC’s path to dominance uncertain.

3. Sokoto State
A traditional PDP stronghold, Sokoto continues to resist APC’s expansion despite national influence and high-profile campaigns.

4. Taraba State
Ethno-religious dynamics and PDP’s historical dominance make Taraba a difficult terrain for APC penetration.

5. Benue State
Benue presents a serious challenge due to persistent security concerns and strong local political sentiments. PDP’s longstanding grassroots network gives it an edge over APC.

6. Plateau State
Plateau’s delicate religious balance makes elections highly sensitive. While APC has recorded wins here, sustaining dominance remains uncertain.

7. Abia State
The rise of the Labour Party (LP) has dramatically reshaped Abia’s political structure, weakening APC’s chances.

8. Anambra State
Anambra remains loyal to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), with strong resistance to APC’s expansion.

9. Enugu State
PDP’s deep-rooted dominance and organized grassroots network continue to shut out APC.

10. Osun State
Though part of APC’s traditional stronghold, Osun has proven highly competitive. The PDP has demonstrated strong comeback ability, making APC’s future victories uncertain.

The challenge for the APC is not just about holding power but maintaining voter trust across diverse regions. In many of these states, political loyalty is shaped more by local dynamics than federal influence.

Figures like Bola Ahmed Tinubu may command national authority, but state-level elections remain deeply personal, influenced by community ties, economic realities, and perceptions of governance.

While APC remains a dominant national force, the road to electoral victory in these 20 states is far from smooth. Without strategic grassroots engagement, internal cohesion, and credible governance outcomes, even the advantage of sitting governors may not be enough to secure wins.