Speaker and Deputy Secure APC Primaries for 2027 Elections
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, along with his deputy, Benjamin Kalu, have successfully won the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, solidifying their bids for re-election in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Abbas and Kalu Confirm Their Candidacies Unopposed
Abbas, who first entered the House of Representatives in 2011 and assumed the role of Speaker in 2023, was the sole contestant in the race. Meanwhile, Kalu has been endorsed to represent the Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, thanks to unanimous support from APC members in his district.
Notable Wins and Emerging Candidates
Elsewhere, former House Minority Leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, claimed victory in the APC primaries in Delta State. Additionally, Yusuf Buhari, the son of late former President Muhammadu Buhari, emerged victorious in the primary election for the Sandum/Daura/Maiadore Federal Constituency in Katsina State. He garnered 6,386 votes, significantly ahead of Awwal Daura, son of former DSS Secretary-General Lawal Musa Daula, who received 322 votes.
Disqualifications and Vetting Process
The APC has announced a list of candidates who were vetted but ultimately disqualified from the primaries. Felix Molka, the party’s national communications secretary, confirmed via social media that the review was conducted in accordance with established protocols. However, he did not disclose the reasons for disqualifying the 14 applicants.
Peaceful Conduct Across Constituencies
In Delta State, Elumelu was proclaimed the winner after verification at the Oshimiri South Local Government Secretariat. Both Delta State Governor Sheriff Obolewori and Deputy Governor Onyeme praised the peaceful execution of the delicate primaries across various constituencies.
Concerns About Irregularities in Some Regions
In Rivers State, House of Assembly Speaker Martin Amaufuru, allied with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, clinched the APC primary for the Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency. Meanwhile, the primaries in Ondo State faced criticism, with allegations of disruption and irregularities surfacing post-election. Some party leaders expressed discontent over the timing of disqualified candidate announcements.
Upcoming Electoral Schedule Announced
As the electoral process continues, Felix Morca confirmed that the House of Representatives primary elections are slated for May 18, 2026, followed by Senate elections on May 19, and House of Representatives elections on May 20. The party also commended the Enugu state chapter for organizing a free and credible primary.
Noteworthy Candidates and Endorsements
In Ogun State, Olumide Osoba, the son of former state governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, secured the party’s nomination as he seeks to return to the National Assembly for a fourth term. Having represented the Obafemi Owode/Abeokuta North/Odeda Federal Constituency for the past decade, Osoba was returned unopposed in his primary challenge.
