In a recent interview shared by Channels Television, former Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Dr. Garba Abari, offered critical insights into the internal workings of the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly in light of recent political developments and defections that have strengthened the party’s hold across states.
Speaking on the party’s structure and operations, Abari, who is also a chieftain of the APC, described the ruling party as “home and dry” following the wave of defections that has reportedly increased its control to 31 governors nationwide. However, he raised concerns about the state of internal democracy within the party.
According to him, the APC is gradually drifting away from being run by seasoned politicians to being controlled by a select group of cronies. He noted that the party now appears “afraid of its own shadow,” adding that its internal democratic processes are not clearly defined within its constitution.
While expressing no outright opposition to the use of consensus in party decisions, Abari emphasized the importance of allowing open contests. To support his point, he referenced a past experience, stating, “In the 2014 Lagos congresses, people told me they use consensus, not open primaries; there would be bloodshed if people were allowed to vote.”
He stressed that for credibility and fairness, political parties must balance consensus with transparent electoral competition.
... In 2014 Lagos Congresses, They Used Consensus, Not Primaries; Bloodshed If Voting Allowed-Abari ... Sportify Post.