The All Progressives Congress (APC) has concluded its presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state assembly primaries across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
While the exercise was peaceful in some states and wards, others were marred by tension, protests and deep dissatisfaction among aspirants and party stakeholders.
Before the primaries, many aspirants had purchased nomination forms, mobilised supporters and traversed their constituencies in search of delegates’ votes. Huge resources, time and political capital were committed in pursuit of their ambitions.
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In Akwa Ibom State, for instance, many politicians considered the governorship seat and the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District untouchable and wisely stayed away from the contests. But they confidently pursued other elective offices, believing the political field was open.
That confidence, however, evaporated when the party announced the automatic return of serving senators, House of Representatives members and state lawmakers. The decision dashed the hopes of many aspirants who had invested heavily in their campaigns. Expectedly, frustration and anger followed.
Governor Umo Eno’s promise to compensate loyalists who defected with him from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress came rather late and failed to calm growing discontent within party ranks.
Critics argue that much of the tension could have been avoided if the party had been transparent from the outset about its adoption and endorsement strategy. According to them, many aspirants were misled into expensive and emotionally draining contests that had already been decided behind closed doors.
There are also concerns that the arrangement rewards underperforming lawmakers with automatic tickets despite poor representation and weak grassroots impact. Others insist the process has entrenched imposition and weakened the zoning principle designed to promote fairness and protect marginalised areas.
Yet, beyond the criticisms, the APC must now focus on reconciliation and inclusion ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party cannot afford cracks within its structure at a time opposition forces are regrouping and preparing for battle. Aggrieved aspirants and their supporters must be engaged and pacified to preserve unity and strengthen internal cohesion.
The burden also rests on elected officials to justify the confidence reposed in them by accelerating ongoing projects and delivering visible dividends of democracy across local government areas. Governance remains the strongest campaign tool.
Equally important is the implementation of the 35 per cent Affirmative Action for women and the expansion of youth-focused programmes to address unemployment, insecurity and rising social vices.
The APC must not ignore the changing political landscape. With the window created by the Federal High Court’s nullification of aspects of INEC regulations, opposition parties are already mobilising to challenge for every available political space.
The lesson is simple: power without inclusion breeds resentment, while unity built on justice strengthens political survival.
For the APC, the task ahead is clear – heal internal wounds, embrace fairness and deliver good governance. Only then can the party approach 2027 from a position of strength.
