Political Turmoil Following APC Primaries
The recent primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have ignited significant political upheaval within the National Assembly. A number of influential committee chairs and long-serving legislators have lost their bids for re-election ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Significant Losses for Established Politicians
The primary results have raised eyebrows across the political spectrum, indicating a growing sense of unrest within the ruling party. Delegates and grassroots members appear to favor new candidates over incumbent politicians. This shift was particularly evident in Delta North Senatorial District, where Senator Ned Nwoko, a prominent figure, lost his APC senatorial ticket to former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. Nwoko, who had a strong political profile centered on regional development, suffered a staggering defeat, receiving just 2,612 votes compared to Okowa’s 113,309 votes.
Uncertainty Surrounds Yusuf Gagdi’s Bid
In Plateau State, Yusuf Gagdi faced initial uncertainty regarding his political future after preliminary results indicated he had lost his bid for a third term in the House of Representatives. Gagdi, who chairs the House of Commons Navy Committee, had served since 2019 and garnered attention for his involvement in national security matters. Although initial results showed Dr. John Tonsinen leading with 29,968 votes to Gagdi’s 5,849, the APC later reversed this outcome, declaring Gagdi the winner based on claims that the initial declaration was unauthorized.
House Majority Leader Falls Short
Among the notable casualties was House Majority Leader Julius Ihonbere from Edo State. Representing the Owan East/Owan West Federal Constituency, Ihonbere had played an essential role in coordinating legislative affairs for the ruling party. However, he lost to former Edo State Mines Commissioner Andrew Ijegbai, who secured 3,695 votes compared to Ihonbere’s 1,005. Following his defeat, Ihonbere rejected the results, alleging irregularities and vowing to appeal.
Additional Defeats in Edo and Delta States
In Edo State, the Oredo Federal Constituency’s Member of Parliament, Esosa Iyawe, lost his APC ticket to Dr. Padi Iyamu, echoing allegations of violence and fraud during the primaries. Similarly, in Delta State, Nicholas Mutu, a seasoned politician who has served since 1999, succumbed to Basil Okorobaowei Ganagana, marking a significant shift in Delta’s political landscape.
Widespread Disruption Across States
The primary elections recorded significant disruptions in several states, including Imo, Jigawa, Kebbi, and Kwara, further highlighting the evolving dynamics within the ruling party. In Benue State, multiple members affiliated with Federal Secretary George Akume lost their return tickets, underscoring a backlash against long-serving politicians. Austin Achado, for instance, garnered only 729 votes against David Nhongo’s 17,429.
Broader Implications for the APC and Future Elections
Within the APC, the election outcomes appear to signal a shift in party dynamics, as many members interpret the results as a rejection of long-serving lawmakers who have become disconnected from their constituents. This may indicate a trend toward new political alliances and power struggles that will likely influence the party’s direction leading up to the 2027 elections. While some defeated lawmakers are preparing to challenge the results or explore alternative political platforms, the primaries have made it clear that tenure and influence are no longer sufficient for political survival in Nigeria’s changing political environment.
