2027: Kogi APC group warns against imposition of candidates

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Kogi State are urging President Bola Tinubu and the national party leadership to ensure that grassroots support, not elite endorsements, drives the selection of National Assembly candidates for the 2027 general elections. The group, known as Concerned APC Leaders, issued a statement emphasizing that relying on recommendations from a few influential figures might not accurately represent the wishes of party members across the state.

"We believe the President should rely on extensive consultations and objective assessments of candidates’ popularity and acceptability among party members and the electorate," the group stated. This appeal comes as political actors begin positioning themselves for the upcoming elections. The Concerned APC Leaders stressed that aspirants with demonstrable grassroots support and established political structures should be allowed to participate freely in the candidate selection process without undue interference.

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We believe the President should rely on extensive consultations and objective assessments of candidates’ popularity and acceptability among party members and the electorate.

The group believes that a transparent and inclusive primary election process is crucial for the party's continued dominance in Kogi State and its success in the next electoral cycle. They cautioned that any perception of favoritism or exclusion could alienate party members and weaken internal cohesion. "Several aspirants being considered for National Assembly positions have established political structures and support bases capable of contributing to the party’s electoral success," the statement added.

Ultimately, the Kogi APC leaders argued that the party's long-term stability in the state hinges on its commitment to internal democracy, fairness, and equal opportunities. They called for thorough consultations with all stakeholders in decisions regarding the party's electoral strategy, asserting that preserving unity and confidence in the primary process would strengthen the APC's position and improve its prospects in 2027. This mirrors ongoing debates nationwide about internal democracy within Nigerian political parties, where allegations of candidate imposition have frequently sparked disputes and defections.

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Several aspirants being considered for National Assembly positions have established political structures and support bases capable of contributing to the party’s electoral success.