Fresh tension has erupted within the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the disqualification of more than 150 aspirants by various party screening panels ahead of its primary elections.
The development has triggered protests, accusations of bias, and growing concerns over internal democracy within the ruling party as preparations intensify for upcoming elections across several states.
A major controversy recently emerged in Rivers State, where dozens of aspirants linked to different political camps were screened out during the APC House of Assembly screening exercise. Reports indicated that several aspirants loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara failed to secure clearance, while many candidates aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, were approved to participate in the primaries.
The screening committee cited reasons including irregular documentation, inconsistencies in submitted records, lack of valid party membership details, and failure to meet nomination requirements. The panel also alleged that one aspirant attempted to influence members of the committee with money during the exercise.
In Osun State, the crisis deepened after seven prominent governorship aspirants, including former APC National Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore, were disqualified from the party’s governorship primary. The screening committee claimed the affected aspirants failed to provide evidence that they were sponsored by the required number of financially up-to-date party members across local government areas.
However, the disqualified aspirants rejected the decision and accused the panel of unfairness and political manipulation. Omisore described the outcome as “a joke” and alleged that the process was influenced to favour a preferred candidate.
The controversy has also reignited complaints from party stakeholders in parts of the South-West and other regions, where members accused powerful figures within the APC of using screening panels to weaken popular aspirants ahead of the primaries.
Some stakeholders warned that the continued disqualification of grassroots-backed aspirants could create deeper divisions within the party and negatively affect its electoral chances. They also raised concerns over alleged attempts to impose candidates through the screening process instead of allowing open contests.
Despite the backlash, APC leaders have defended the screening exercises, insisting the panels were guided by the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines. According to party officials, aspirants who failed to satisfy the required conditions could not be cleared for participation in the primaries.
Political observers believe the growing disputes surrounding the screening exercises may further expose existing cracks within the APC as competition for party tickets intensifies ahead of future elections.
