The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially declared that it will conduct direct primaries to select its presidential candidate, urging party members nationwide to travel to Abuja and cast their votes. This development was announced by the party's National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, in a video that went viral on Thursday, May 7.
Presidential Contenders Emerge
According to Basiru, the presidential primary will feature two candidates: President Bola Tinubu and Osifo Stanley, a businessman from Edo State who purchased the APC nomination forms for N100 million. This marks a significant shift from the earlier consensus approach, which the party had adopted but ultimately failed to implement successfully.
Consensus Model Fails
The decision to move to direct primaries came after the consensus model proved problematic in several states. For instance, while the Ogun APC managed to agree on a governorship candidate, other elective positions remained contentious. A notable example is the Ogun East senatorial ticket dispute between Governor Dapo Abiodun and former Governor Gbenga Daniel, who currently holds the seat.
Similarly, the party has struggled to nominate a gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State. Two leading aspirants, Senator Sharafadeen Alli and former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, both claim to be President Tinubu's anointed candidate, further complicating the situation.
Party Calls for Unity
In light of these challenges, the APC leadership has called on all members to participate in the direct primaries, emphasizing that this process will ensure a fair and transparent selection of the party's flagbearer. The primary election is expected to take place in Abuja, with voting open to all registered party members.
This move underscores the APC's commitment to democratic principles, even as internal disagreements persist. The outcome of the direct primary will determine who represents the party in the upcoming presidential election.
