APC Waives Screening for President Tinubu's Re-election Bid

In a significant move that underscores the internal dynamics of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party's National Working Committee (NWC) has officially waived the screening requirements for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's pursuit of a second term. This decision, announced by APC spokesperson Felix Morka, bypasses the standard procedure where presidential aspirants undergo scrutiny by a screening committee.

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This decision was made pursuant to the powers conferred on the NWC under Article 13.4 (xiii) and (xiv) of the Constitution of APC to organise and supervise the Party’s primaries and, in special circumstances, grant waivers, in the best interest of the Party.

The NWC invoked its constitutional powers, citing Article 13.4 (xiii) and (xiv), to grant this waiver, deeming it in the "best interest of the Party." This rationale suggests a strategic calculation by the party leadership, prioritizing continuity and potentially avoiding any perceived internal friction or challenges that a formal screening might entail for the incumbent president.

Furthermore, the statement highlighted the "overwhelming endorsement and vote of confidence" President Tinubu has received from key party stakeholders, including the Progressive Governors Forum and leaders in the National Assembly. The NWC also noted that requiring the incumbent president to appear before a screening committee at this juncture would be "redundant and unnecessary," given his prior clearance for the 2022 primaries and his current leadership role.

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The NWC noted that the President @officialABAT has received overwhelming endorsement and vote of confidence from critical stakeholders of the Party,including the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), the leadership and members of the National Assembly, and other organs of the Party at the APC National Summit of May 22, 2025, and other major statutory events of the Party.

From Nigeria's perspective, this waiver is a clear signal of the APC's consolidation of power around President Tinubu. While proponents will argue it streamlines the process and reflects the president's strong standing within the party, critics may view it as a departure from democratic transparency. The APC, as a major political force, often makes decisions that prioritize party cohesion and electoral strategy, and this move aligns with that approach. The focus now shifts to the formal convention where his adoption as the presidential candidate will be ratified, setting the stage for the upcoming general elections.

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It noted further that, as the incumbent President, and leader of our great Party, having been duly screened and cleared ahead of the 2022 presidential primaries, requiring his physical appearance before a screening committee, at this time, would be redundant and unnecessary.