APC Forum Applauds Governor Sule and Party Leaders for Embracing Direct Primaries
The Emerging Progressives Leaders' Forum (EPLF), a prominent group within the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed strong commendation for Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule and the party's leadership in the state. This praise follows their decision to adopt the direct primaries mode for selecting candidates in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
A Progressive Move Toward Democratic Deepening
In a joint statement released by the Forum's National Coordinator, Barrister Johnson Preye-Aganaba, and Secretary, Alhaji Abdulkarim Ibrahim, the group hailed this adoption as a bold and progressive step aimed at deepening democratic practices within the party. They described it as a forward-thinking and inclusive decision that places the interests of grassroots members at the forefront.
The statement emphasized that direct primaries will significantly enhance internal democracy by enabling all registered party members to participate directly in candidate selection. This approach moves away from the traditional delegate system, which often limits involvement to a select few, thereby fostering greater transparency and accountability.
Strengthening Party Structures and Building Trust
According to the EPLF, this system is expected to not only strengthen party structures but also build trust and confidence among members. The decision to embrace direct primaries is a clear demonstration of commitment to transparency, fairness, and accountability, the statement read. It ensures that aspirants emerge through a credible and widely accepted process, which can help reduce internal conflicts and post-primary disputes.
The group further noted that this move aligns with ongoing nationwide calls for electoral reforms, setting a commendable example for other states and political parties to follow. By curbing the imposition of candidates—a practice that has long undermined democratic values—direct primaries give ordinary members a voice and are likely to produce candidates with genuine popular support.
Call for Peaceful Implementation and Active Participation
While applauding Governor Sule's leadership, the Forum urged stakeholders to ensure that the implementation of the direct primaries system is conducted in a peaceful, transparent, and well-organized manner to achieve the desired outcomes. They also called on party faithful in Nasarawa State to take full advantage of this opportunity by actively participating in the process, emphasizing that their involvement is crucial to the initiative's success.
Reaffirming its commitment to promoting good governance and democratic ideals, the Emerging Progressives Leaders' Forum pledged to continue supporting policies and actions that advance credible elections and strengthen Nigeria's democratic institutions. The group concluded by expressing optimism that this adoption in Nasarawa State will foster unity within the party and contribute to the overall stability and growth of the democratic process in the country.
