ABUJA, Nigeria (AP), Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has released the official list of senatorial aspirants disqualified from contesting in its upcoming primaries, citing irregularities in documentation, failure to meet party requirements, and unresolved legal issues.
The announcement was made late Sunday by the party’s screening committee, which reviewed applications from aspirants across the country. The list, contained in this article, includes names of candidates affected by issues ranging from incomplete membership records to pending corruption cases. Officials said the disqualifications were necessary to uphold internal party rules and ensure compliance with Nigeria’s Electoral Act.
The screening process involved several stages. Aspirants first submitted membership records, nomination forms, and proof of payment of party dues. The committee verified these documents against official registers. Candidates were then assessed against constitutional requirements such as age, citizenship, and voter registration. Background checks were conducted to identify pending criminal cases or disciplinary issues. Finally, aspirants appeared before panels for interviews, where they were questioned about their political experience, loyalty to the party, and plans if elected. Reports from these sessions were compiled and submitted to party leadership, which approved the disqualification list.
Nigeria is preparing for the 2027 general elections, with political parties currently conducting primaries to select candidates for legislative and executive positions. The Senate, Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber, plays a critical role in passing laws, approving budgets, and confirming presidential appointments. Disqualification of aspirants is not unusual in Nigerian politics, but such decisions often spark internal disputes and legal challenges that can weaken party unity ahead of elections.
Some disqualified aspirants have vowed to appeal the decision, accusing the party of bias and favoritism. Civil society groups urged transparency, warning that opaque screening processes could undermine confidence in Nigeria’s democratic system. Political analysts say the APC’s move reflects broader efforts by parties to avoid post‑primary litigation, which has plagued past elections.
Nigeria’s elections are closely watched across Africa and beyond. As the continent’s largest democracy and economy, the credibility of its electoral process has implications for regional stability, foreign investment, and international partnerships. Observers from the African Union and other organizations are expected to monitor the primaries and general elections, assessing whether parties adhere to democratic standards.
The APC said cleared aspirants will proceed to primaries scheduled later this month. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reminded parties that all primaries must comply with the Electoral Act, including submission of membership registers and adherence to deadlines.
