Fresh tensions have erupted within the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 elections as aspirants across several states continue to resist alleged attempts by governors and party leaders to impose consensus candidates.
The crisis intensified ahead of the commencement of House of Representatives primaries, forcing the party’s National Working Committee to abandon plans for a broad consensus arrangement and instead distribute materials for direct primaries in many states.
National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda warned aspirants and their supporters against violence, anti party activities and actions capable of disrupting the primary elections. He stressed that anyone found undermining the process could face immediate suspension from the party.
Despite growing opposition at state level, the 31 APC governors have unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the party’s consensus presidential candidate for 2027. Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma said the governors remained united in supporting Tinubu’s second term ambition.
However, fierce battles are unfolding in many states. In Ogun State, Senator Gbenga Daniel rejected consensus arrangements as he prepares for a showdown with Governor Dapo Abiodun over the Ogun East senatorial seat.
In Rivers State, governorship aspirant Tonye Patrick Cole declared that no consensus arrangement exists in the state and insisted on direct primaries.
Former Minister of Communications Isa Pantami also dismissed reports of consensus arrangements in Gombe State, calling for transparent direct primaries to preserve democracy within the party.
In Nasarawa State, former Inspector General of Police Muhammed Adamu accused political forces of trying to manipulate the process in favour of preferred aspirants.
Similar protests have emerged in Kaduna, Zamfara, Ondo and Kebbi states, where aspirants rejected consensus and demanded open voting through direct primaries and Option A4.
Political observers believe the growing resistance reflects deep internal divisions within the APC as the party struggles to balance unity, zoning arrangements and democratic competition ahead of the crucial 2027 elections.
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