APC Faces Critical Gubernatorial Primaries Amid Rising Tensions
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is poised to undergo one of its most significant political challenges today as it conducts its gubernatorial primary election. With the backdrop of escalating tensions, intense power struggles, and deepening rifts within the party, the stakes are higher than ever as the 2027 general elections approach.
Manoeuvring for Political Influence
A nationwide assessment reveals significant divisions among governors, ministers, legislators, and influential party officials, all jockeying for control of the APC’s future and the political landscape beyond the current administration. The battle for succession is intensifying, particularly among incumbent governors nearing the end of their second terms. Many are eager to safeguard their political legacies by installing loyal successors before exiting office.
Contentious State-level Races
States such as Kwara, Gombe, Oyo, Adamawa, Bauchi, Plateau, Lagos, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Yobe are emerging as significant flashpoints of intra-party conflict. In Kwara, attempts at consensus have failed, leading to a crowded field of contestants vying against the preferred candidate of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Yahaya Seriki, despite some withdrawals from the race. Similarly, Nasarawa State witnesses candidates challenging Governor Abdullahi Sule’s choice, Senator Ahmed Wadada, while candidates in Lagos are realigning as they gear up for the primaries, rallying around Obafemi Hamzat.
Notable Candidates and Competing Interests
Bauchi State is filled with prominent figures such as former Foreign Minister Yusuf Tugar, Senator Shehu Buba Umar, and ex-governor Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar. In Oyo, main players include former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, Senator Sharafadeen Ali, Hakeem Agbaje, and Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin. Adamawa State presents its own diversity of candidates, including Abdulrazaq Namdas and Senator Aminu Abbas, as well as a competitive race in Abia, where Mascot Uzor Kalu and others are seeking nominations.
The Challenge of Candidate Imposition
Benue State’s political landscape reveals numerous candidates like Mathias Buane and Terwase Olubunde vying against Governor Hyacinth Aria. Similarly, Gombe’s race will see Senator Said Alkali face off against Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s recommended candidate, Jamil Gwamuna. Amidst these rivalries, serious concerns have emerged regarding alleged candidate imposition by outgoing governors and established party leaders. Aspirants are expressing frustration over manipulated delegate lists and selection processes, leading to protests, parallel meetings, and threats of legal actions.
Debate Over Primary Methods and Security Risks
Another contentious issue is the mode of the primaries. While the APC leadership advocates for consensus agreements to minimize conflict, many aspirants argue that this approach has become a mechanism for candidate imposition instead of a genuine consensus. Security concerns are also rising, particularly in states where clashes between rival factions have been reported, prompting worries that disputes over voting and results announcements could escalate into violence.
Political Maneuvering and Key Players
Observers are keenly monitoring how the APC navigates redistricting, ethnic balance, and power-sharing, especially in regions where these issues have historically been politically charged. The drama continues today for Rivers State’s Governor Siminalai Hubara, who awaits the outcome of a panel review amid growing speculation about his standing within the party. His political future is clouded further by persistent claims from his mentor and predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who has publicly questioned Hubara’s chances for re-election in 2027.
Hubara’s Political Landscape and Rivals
As the political narrative unfolds, it has become apparent that Hubara’s fate is closely tied to his interactions within the APC, particularly following his recent meeting with APC National Chairman Ntawe Yurwatoda. Despite differing party affiliations, Wike’s influence looms large, complicating Hubara’s ambitions for a second term. Rivals, including Kingsley Chinda and Dax George-Kelly, are positioning themselves to capitalize on any potential vulnerabilities as the primaries draw near.
