According to a report by the Punch on Monday, March 30, 2026, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has revealed that the All Progressives Congress in the state has agreed to adopt a direct primary system for selecting its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking after a high-level meeting with key stakeholders, including the deputy governor, governorship aspirants, lawmakers, and political appointees, Sule explained that the decision followed extensive consultations aimed at ensuring unity and transparency within the party.
He noted that the meeting provided an opportunity for party leaders and aspirants to openly discuss the best approach to the upcoming primaries, stressing that inclusiveness and fairness would be prioritised throughout the process.
Highlighting the strength of the contenders, the governor said, “We have very strong aspirants, most of whom have held top positions in this country, some of them still holding positions.” He emphasised that such individuals deserve respect and must work together in the interest of the party.
On the choice of candidate selection method, Sule stated that most stakeholders supported direct primaries, a system that allows all registered party members to participate in choosing candidates. According to him, this aligns with the position of President Bola Tinubu, who has consistently advocated for broader participation in party decisions.
The governor assured party members that the process would be transparent and conducted strictly in line with party guidelines and the Electoral Act, leaving little room for disputes. He also cautioned aspirants against leaving the party if they lose, stressing that a fair process should be accepted by all participants.
Addressing the issue of zoning, Sule stated that although the term is often used loosely, the guiding principle is fairness among the state’s three senatorial zones. He pointed out that Nasarawa South had previously held the governorship for 12 years, while Nasarawa North currently occupies the position.
Based on this arrangement, he argued that it is only fair for Nasarawa West, particularly the Keffi axis, to produce the next governor, as the zone has not held the office for over two decades.
... We Have Very Strong Aspirants, Most Of Whom Have Held Top Positions In This Country – Abdullahi Sule ... Sportify Post.