The National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress has approved a waiver allowing President Bola Tinubu to participate in the party’s primary elections without undergoing the standard screening process. The decision was reached during the committee’s 188th meeting and formally announced by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka.
According to the party, the waiver was granted under constitutional provisions that empower the committee to organise and supervise primaries while making special considerations when necessary. The move follows widespread endorsements for Tinubu from influential party blocs, including governors, lawmakers and stakeholders who backed him during the APC National Summit held in May 2025.
Party officials explained that as a sitting president who had previously undergone screening before the 2022 primaries, requiring a repeat process would add no value. The leadership maintained that the decision reflects both administrative efficiency and confidence in Tinubu’s standing within the party.
APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda described the current political atmosphere at the party’s headquarters in Abuja as highly active, noting a large turnout of aspirants submitting nomination forms. He emphasized that interest in contesting positions spans all regions of the country, including the presidency, demonstrating internal democracy and openness within the party.
Yilwatda also addressed concerns about internal tensions and opposition movements, downplaying their significance. He stated that recent defections and the emergence of new political coalitions have minimal impact on the APC’s strength. According to him, the party remains unified and well positioned for future elections, expressing confidence that it will secure a majority of seats in the 2027 general elections.
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