Protests Erupt in Adamawa APC Over House of Representatives Primaries
Tensions are escalating within the Adamawa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following widespread protests in Numan concerning the House of Representatives primaries for the Demsa, Numan, and Lamurde federal constituencies.
On Sunday, hundreds of party members, volunteers, and various youth and women’s groups convened at the APC zonal office in Numan to voice their frustrations. The demonstrations were ignited by allegations of electoral manipulation favoring Kwamoti Laoli, who is reportedly a close ally of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
Protesters displayed placards bearing messages like “No to imposition,” “Let the people decide,” and “Democracy must prevail.” Many attendees contended that the primary election lacked credibility, asserting that unpopular candidates were imposed against the electorate’s wishes.
Voices from the crowd expressed concerns that this situation signals a troubling trend toward chaos in the party’s internal democratic processes. Many believe that grassroots members should have the autonomy to choose their own representatives free from external interference.
Frustrated party officials accused Fintiri of betraying their trust by endorsing what they describe as an undemocratic process. They argue that his actions have diminished public confidence in his leadership, particularly as he consolidates his political power in the Southern Senatorial Zone, a historic stronghold.
Protesters asserted that rewarding a region viewed as a betrayer is a significant miscalculation, potentially jeopardizing the party’s standing as the 2027 general elections approach. They cautioned that this discord could foster deep divisions within the APC.
Leaders of youth and women factions emphasized that the party risks severe electoral repercussions in the constituency unless the contested results are reviewed. They urged swift action from party leadership to restore trust among members.
One protester articulated the sentiment that lawmakers supported Fintiri’s government, believing it would promote justice and fairness; however, the primary process contradicted those ideals, illustrating widespread discontent with the regional leadership.
Aspirants Ken Usoko and Vulati Nzonzo publicly denounced the results, claiming the election was neither transparent nor credible. They stressed that their opposition stems from a desire to safeguard the integrity of the APC rather than from personal ambition.
Volunteers highlighted their significant investment of time, resources, and political energy to rally support across the Demsa, Numan, and Lamoured local government areas, insisting they deserve a fair competition in the political arena. They warned that if party leadership fails to resolve these issues ahead of Monday’s Senate primaries, the APC may face voter disapproval come the 2027 elections, pressing the urgency of their demands.
The protesters called for the national and state APC leadership to annul the allegedly coerced candidate list and to organize free, fair, and transparent primaries, asserting that only such measures can restore confidence in the party.
Despite their grievances, the protesting volunteers reaffirmed their commitment to the APC, pledging to seek resolutions through constitutional and peaceful means. They remain devoted to the party, even amidst this turmoil.
The protests have sparked serious concerns about the procedural integrity of the APC primaries in Adamawa, raising significant questions about internal democracy and party cohesion as the 2027 elections loom on the horizon.
