Social commentator Isaac Fayose has challenged the All Progressives Congress to demonstrate its popularity at the grassroots, questioning whether the ruling party can secure votes in Nigeria’s major electoral battlegrounds without relying on federal power.
Fayose, in a video posted on his official Facebook page on Tuesday, claimed that the APC could not win at least three of the 10 states with the highest number of registered voters without rigging the 2027 general elections.
He named Lagos, Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Rivers, Oyo, Delta, Benue, Ogun and Bauchi as states where he questioned the party’s electoral strength.
Rather than accepting the APC’s political influence as evidence of widespread public support, Fayose argued that control of federal institutions, security agencies and access to wealthy interests should not be confused with grassroots popularity.
“You are strong because you have the police, the army and the rich people, but you are not strong on the street. You all are bullies,” he said.
The commentator also questioned restrictions allegedly placed on opposition campaigns, challenging the ruling party to allow rival candidates to canvass for votes freely.
“If you people are sure of yourself, why not allow free and fair elections? Why are you stopping us from campaigning?” he asked.
Fayose insisted that the 2027 election should provide an opportunity for voters to determine which political party enjoys genuine public support.
“Allow free, fair and credible elections and we will know who is the boss and who is a bully,” he said.
His remarks place the spotlight on two issues likely to shape political debate ahead of the 2027 polls: the ability of parties to mobilise voters beyond their control of government institutions and the conditions under which opposition parties can campaign.
However, Fayose’s claim that the APC cannot win three of the listed states without rigging remains his allegation. He did not provide polling figures or other evidence in the video to substantiate the assertion.
