ABUJA (AP) As the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares to commence its primaries, intense lobbying and rising tension are gripping the ruling party. Aspirants and political stakeholders across Nigeria are deepening consultations, negotiating alliances, and building coalitions in a bid to secure party tickets for the House of Representatives, Senate, and governorship races.
In key states, the battle lines are already drawn. Party members have voiced concerns over possible imposition of candidates by powerful figures within the APC, warning that such moves could undermine internal democracy. “We want a fair contest, not a predetermined outcome,” said Ibrahim Salisu, an aspirant from Kano. “The grassroots must be allowed to decide who represents them.”
Zoning controversies have further complicated the process. In Oyo, Rivers, and Lagos, debates over whether certain positions should be reserved for specific regions or ethnic blocs have sparked heated arguments. Supporters of zoning insist it promotes inclusivity, while opponents argue it limits merit and weakens competition.
Observers say the stakes are high, with the primaries likely to determine the APC’s strength heading into the general election. “The primaries are the real battleground,” noted Dr. Chika Okoye, a political analyst in Abuja. “If the party mishandles candidate selection, it risks defections, protests, and a loss of credibility among voters.”
Party officials have attempted to calm nerves, assuring members that the process will be transparent. “We are committed to free and fair primaries,” said an APC spokesperson. “Every aspirant will have a level playing field, and the party will not tolerate imposition.”
Supporters, however, remain divided. Some welcome the leadership’s assurances, while others remain skeptical, pointing to past controversies where candidates were allegedly handpicked. Rival parties have seized on the tension, portraying the APC as fractured and vulnerable. A PDP official in Lagos remarked, “What we are seeing is a ruling party struggling to manage its own house. Nigerians deserve better.”
The implications for the general election are significant. Analysts warn that unresolved disputes could weaken APC’s unity, especially in swing states where loyalty is fragile. With aspirants intensifying their lobbying and alliances shifting daily, the primaries are shaping up to be one of the most contentious in recent memory.
