The All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries have sparked widespread controversy, with many candidates rejecting the outcomes. At least 70 of the 330 APC senators and House of Representatives members currently in the National Assembly are unlikely to return for the 2027 elections, according to reports. The final results of the National Assembly primaries have yet to be officially released.
APC Lawmakers Who Lost at Primaries
The APC currently holds 242 seats in the House of Representatives and 88 in the Senate. Most of these lawmakers sought re-election, including a former Labour Party member elected on an Okada rider platform who later defected to the APC. He was disqualified during screening, topping the list of legislators unable to run again. The newly signed Electoral Act prevents them from switching parties, as the deadline for defection ended on May 10.
Analyst Speaks on APC Primaries
Political commentator Olajumoke Victor, speaking with Legit.ng, described the primaries as a mix of expected and surprising results. He noted that while the party leadership defended the process, aspirants and supporters complained about inconsistencies and lack of transparency. Victor emphasized that such disputes are common in competitive political contests.
Victor added: "The APC primaries produced a mix of expected victories and surprising outcomes across different states. While the party leadership has largely defended the process, some aspirants and their supporters have expressed dissatisfaction, alleging irregularities and lack of transparency in certain areas. Such disputes are not uncommon in highly competitive political contests."
Impact on APC's Future
Victor highlighted that the primaries reflect both the strengths and challenges of internal party democracy. He stated: "My view is that the primaries reflected both the strength and challenges of internal party democracy. The ability of the party to reconcile aggrieved members and unite behind its candidates will play a significant role in determining its strength ahead of future elections."
Presidency Reacts to Obi's Call
In related news, the presidency responded to Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC), calling him ignorant about Nigeria's power generation capacity. Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, countered Obi's criticism of President Bola Tinubu, stating that the electricity problem is not a gas shortage but a different issue.
