Nigeria’s ruling party, the All Progressives Congress, has successfully produced governorship candidates in 25 states, although internal disagreements and logistical challenges forced a delay in primaries in Kwara and Bauchi states.
The postponement, according to party spokesman Felix Morka, followed consultations aimed at ensuring a credible and orderly process. However, the decision triggered suspicion among party members, especially in the affected states, where some supporters alleged attempts to influence outcomes.
In Kwara, political tension grew around the emergence of Yahaya Seriki as a preferred candidate, with several aspirants stepping down after behind-the-scenes negotiations to maintain party unity. Meanwhile, confusion marked voting activities in parts of the state due to the absence of electoral materials and officials.
Bauchi witnessed protests from supporters of aspirant Nura Soro, who demanded transparency and resisted any form of candidate imposition. Demonstrators insisted that all results should follow a clear and verifiable process from ward to final collation.
Elsewhere, the primaries recorded smoother outcomes. In Lagos, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat secured the party’s governorship ticket with an overwhelming vote count. Similarly, in Rivers State, Kingsley Chinda emerged as the party’s candidate despite controversy following Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s withdrawal from the race.
Other notable outcomes include victories for Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Delta and Governor Peter Mbah in Enugu, both securing their party tickets through largely peaceful processes. In Gombe, businessman Jamilu Gwamna delivered a major upset by defeating former ministers Isa Pantami and Said Alkali.
The party also confirmed preparations for its upcoming presidential primary, where incumbent President Bola Tinubu is expected to contest alongside another aspirant. The exercise will be conducted nationwide across all wards, with results collated through a structured multi-level system.
Despite pockets of unrest and delays, the APC maintains that the overall process reflects internal democracy and grassroots participation, while efforts continue to resolve outstanding issues in affected states.
