The political landscape of Nigeria is constantly evolving, and as we have seen in recent years, smaller political parties are starting to gain traction in regions once considered strongholds of the two dominant parties: the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). One such party is the Action Peoples Party (APP), which, following its recent popularity and successes in Rivers State, has captured the interest of many political observers. The question on everyone’s mind is whether the APP could replicate the success of the Labour Party (LP), which has emerged as a formidable force in the Nigerian political arena, particularly after its significant wins in the 2023 general elections.

Rivers State, a key political hub in the Niger Delta, has long been dominated by the PDP, with occasional competition from the APC. However, recent developments indicate that the political landscape is no longer business as usual. The PDP’s stronghold is being challenged not only by the APC but also by emerging parties like the APP. In the last election cycle, the APP made significant inroads in Rivers, winning several local seats and gaining visibility.

This rise in APP’s influence in Rivers has sparked conversations about the party’s potential to grow beyond its current standing. Could the APP be the next Labour Party in terms of sudden national recognition, broad acceptance, and electoral victories?

The APP’s growing acceptance in Rivers can be attributed to several factors. First, the leadership of the APP in Rivers State has managed to present itself as a viable alternative to the dominant PDP and the opposition APC. The APP has capitalized on the general discontent among the populace over economic hardships, poor governance, and a perceived disconnect between the ruling elite and the masses. Just as the Labour Party managed to connect with the youth, the middle class, and the underrepresented in the 2023 elections, the APP is beginning to fill a similar space in Rivers.

As gathered from a professional colleague whose beat as a Journalist in the Niger Delta Region includes Rivers, the party’s message of inclusivity, transparency, and grassroots development has resonated with many voters who feel abandoned by the traditional parties. Many Rivers residents are searching for fresh ideas, leadership with integrity, and a party that truly represents their interests. APP’s increasing popularity is also driven by the fact that it has been able to attract credible candidates, both young and experienced, who share the party’s values and vision for Rivers State.

The Labour Party’s meteoric rise during the 2023 elections offers several lessons for the APP. First and foremost, the Labour Party understood that to break the dominance of the established parties, it had to appeal to the masses’ sentiments while positioning itself as a voice for the voiceless. With Peter Obi’s candidacy for the presidency, the LP successfully painted itself as the party of hope, change, and accountability. This narrative appealed to millions of disillusioned voters across the country, particularly in urban areas and among the youth.

The APP in Rivers State has a similar opportunity. By positioning itself as a party that genuinely listens to the people and prioritizes their needs, it can continue to chip away at the PDP and APC’s hold on the electorate. The APP can also draw inspiration from the Labour Party’s focus on grassroots mobilization. Labour’s success was not solely due to its presidential candidate; the party was able to build a network of supporters across the country through town hall meetings, social media campaigns, and personal engagements with voters.

In Rivers, the APP could adopt a similar strategy, deepening its connection with voters at the grassroots level, holding leaders accountable, and maintaining consistent communication with its base. If it can successfully create a narrative that mirrors the Labour Party’s underdog story, the APP has the potential to blossom into a major political force not just in Rivers but across the Niger Delta and beyond.

However, while the APP’s recent gains in Rivers are promising, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The political terrain in Rivers State is complex and competitive. The PDP, with its deep pockets and entrenched political machinery, will not easily cede control. Similarly, the APC, despite internal fractures, remains a formidable opponent with strong backing from national figures.

To succeed, the APP must avoid the pitfalls that have derailed other smaller parties in Nigeria. One of the key challenges is maintaining party cohesion. Many smaller parties have struggled to remain united as they grow, with internal disagreements often leading to factionalism and weakening their political effectiveness. The APP will need to ensure that it remains disciplined, unified, and committed to its core values.

Another challenge is maintaining relevance beyond local elections. While the APP has gained momentum in Rivers, it must work to translate that local success into broader regional and national relevance. This means identifying strong candidates for gubernatorial, senatorial, and national assembly positions in the next election cycles. If the APP can field competitive candidates in these races, it can solidify its place as a serious political contender.

One key to the APP’s continued success will be its ability to form strategic partnerships and coalitions with other like-minded parties and political actors. The Labour Party’s rise was bolstered by the support of various civil society groups, labor unions, and other smaller parties that aligned with its vision. In a similar vein, the APP could benefit from forming alliances with other progressive parties, community groups, and labor organizations that share its goals for grassroots development and transparent governance.

By working together with other political stakeholders, the APP can build a broader coalition of supporters that can challenge the entrenched political elites in Rivers. This strategy could also extend beyond the state, as the party could seek to partner with national movements that are calling for political reform and greater accountability in Nigeria’s governance.

Whether the APP can fully blossom like the Labour Party will depend on its ability to maintain its momentum, avoid internal divisions, and stay true to its grassroots message. The political conditions in Rivers State are ripe for a change, with many voters disillusioned by the PDP and the APC. The APP has the potential to capitalize on this discontent, but it must remain focused and strategic in its approach.

The party must also remember that its journey to greater relevance will be a marathon, not a sprint. Just as the Labour Party’s rise was built on years of groundwork, the APP must continue to build its base and engage with voters year-round, not just during election season. If it can do so, it may very well become the next major political force in Rivers State, and potentially beyond.

In fact, the Action Peoples Party’s recent successes in Rivers State have raised important questions about its potential to become a dominant political force, much like the Labour Party in 2023. While there are no guarantees in politics, the APP’s growing popularity, strong grassroots appeal, and ability to present a viable alternative to the PDP and APC suggest that it is on the right track. However, the road to political relevance is long and challenging, and the APP will need to remain focused, united, and committed to its ideals if it hopes to fully blossom in the political garden of Rivers and Nigeria at large.