Tension mount within the ruling All Progressives Congress after party screening panels reportedly disqualified more than 150 aspirants ahead of the party’s primary elections across several states.
The development has triggered protests and complaints from affected aspirants and their supporters, many of whom accused the screening committees of bias, injustice, and attempts to impose preferred candidates. Some aspirants were said to have been disqualified over alleged irregularities in documentation and eligibility issues.
Party insiders disclosed that the screening exercise affected aspirants contesting for various elective positions, including governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly seats. The exercise is part of preparations for the APC’s upcoming primaries ahead of future elections.
In some states, aggrieved aspirants have reportedly begun consultations over possible appeals and legal action, while others are demanding the intervention of the party’s national leadership to review the screening outcomes and ensure fairness in the process.
Despite the growing tension, APC officials maintained that the screening process was conducted in line with party guidelines and electoral requirements, insisting that only qualified aspirants would be cleared to participate in the primaries.