APC unveils 25 gov candidates as Kwara, Bauchi suffer delay

The All Progressives Congress (APC) faced internal hurdles as it attempted to conduct its governorship primaries, leading to postponements in Kwara and Bauchi states, as well as state assembly primaries in Zamfara. The party cited the need for consensus arrangements and the management of rising tensions as reasons for delaying these crucial electoral exercises.

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The All Progressives Congress hereby announces the rescheduling of the governorship primary elections in Bauchi and Kwara States to Friday, May 22, 2026.

While incumbent governors and consensus candidates secured victories in 25 states, the exercises in Kwara and Bauchi were rescheduled for the following day, and Zamfara's assembly primaries were pushed to a later date. The official explanation from APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka emphasized the party's commitment to a "transparent, orderly, peaceful and credible primary election process." This suggests a deliberate effort to manage internal dissent and ensure a smoother path forward, even if it means delaying the process.

However, these postponements have fueled suspicions within party ranks. In Kwara and Bauchi, supporters have openly accused influential figures of attempting to manipulate the primaries in favor of preferred aspirants. This internal friction, particularly in Kwara State concerning Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's preferred successor, highlights the complex power dynamics and negotiations that often characterize intra-party politics in Nigeria.

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Similarly, the party has approved the rescheduling of the State House of Assembly primary elections for Maradun I and Maradun II Constituencies in Zamfara State to Sunday, May 24, 2026.

Simultaneously, the APC has been establishing its election management structures for the 2026 presidential primary, appointing former Senate President Pius Anyim and former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari to lead key committees. This forward-looking move indicates the party's focus on its national leadership contest, even as it navigates the complexities of state-level primaries.

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The decision was approved by the National Working Committee following consultations with relevant stakeholders and in furtherance of the party’s commitment to ensuring a transparent, orderly, peaceful and credible primary election process.