APC Group Applauds Nasarawa Governor's Decision on Direct Primaries for 2027 Elections
The Emerging Progressives Leaders' Forum (EPLF) has publicly commended Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, along with other All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders in the state, for their decision to adopt direct primaries for selecting the party's candidate in the upcoming 2027 general elections. This significant move has been described as a progressive step that strengthens internal democratic processes within the political party.
Statement from EPLF Leadership
In a joint statement released by the Forum's National Coordinator, Barrister Johnson Preye-Aganaba, and Secretary, Alhaji Abdulkarim Ibrahim, the group emphasized that this decision represents a bold and forward-thinking approach to party politics. The statement highlighted that allowing all registered party members to participate directly in candidate selection, rather than limiting the process to a small group of delegates, will significantly enhance transparency and fairness.
"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, thereby reducing internal conflicts and post-primary disputes that have historically plagued our political system."
Benefits of Direct Primaries System
The EPLF elaborated on several key advantages of implementing direct primaries:
- Enhanced Democratic Participation: All registered party members gain the opportunity to directly influence candidate selection
- Reduced Internal Conflicts: A more transparent process minimizes disputes that often arise from delegate-based systems
- Strengthened Party Structures: Building trust among members and creating more robust organizational frameworks
- Combating Imposed Candidates: Addressing the longstanding challenge of candidates being imposed on party members without proper consultation
Call for Peaceful Implementation
While praising Governor Sule's leadership in this initiative, the EPLF urged all party stakeholders to ensure that the direct primaries are conducted in a peaceful, transparent, and organized manner. The group specifically called on party faithful in Nasarawa State to actively participate in the process, emphasizing that member involvement is crucial for the success of this democratic reform.
"We call on party faithful in Nasarawa State to take full advantage of this opportunity by actively participating in the process, as their involvement is crucial to its success," the statement added.
Broader Implications for Nigerian Democracy
The Forum emphasized that Nasarawa State's adoption of direct primaries sets an important precedent for other states and political parties across Nigeria. This move aligns with ongoing national calls for comprehensive electoral reforms and represents a practical step toward strengthening democratic institutions throughout the country.
Reaffirming its commitment to good governance principles, the EPLF pledged continued support for policies and actions that promote credible elections and enhance Nigeria's democratic framework. The group expressed optimism that this development in Nasarawa State would foster greater unity within the APC while contributing to the overall stability and growth of democracy in Nigeria.
The Emerging Progressives Leaders' Forum represents a growing voice within Nigerian politics advocating for more inclusive and transparent political processes, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
