…As consensus plan sparks anxiety among aspirants
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that its 2027 presidential ticket remains open to all interested members, even as its consensus-driven strategy for other elective positions fuels growing uncertainty and anxiety among aspirants.
Speaking ahead of the party’s national convention, Deputy National Organising Secretary, Chidi Duru, said no aspirant would be barred from contesting the presidential ticket, despite the widespread adoption of President Bola Tinubu for a second term.
Duru explained that while the APC traditionally leans toward consensus, it remains committed to internal democracy by allowing members to test their popularity. He, however, emphasised that incumbents typically enjoy what he described as the “right of first refusal,” especially when their performance aligns with party expectations.
According to him, such an approach not only rewards performance but also strengthens accountability, as office holders are encouraged to deliver on party ideology to secure re-election. He added that unpopular candidates could weaken the party’s electoral chances, making consensus a strategic option.
The party’s position comes as it prepares for its national convention in Abuja, where zoning arrangements for key leadership positions have already been reaffirmed to maintain internal balance across geopolitical zones. However, beneath the surface, the APC’s reliance on consensus for selecting candidates at other levels has triggered unease among governorship, National Assembly, and states Assembly aspirants.
Investigations reveal that many aspirants are uncertain about how the consensus model will be implemented, particularly in states without incumbent governors seeking re-election. While sitting governors are widely expected to secure automatic tickets under the “right of first refusal”, aspirants in other states say the lack of clear guidelines has left them in limbo.
The confusion is further compounded by the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which schedules party primaries between April 23 and May 30, alongside requirements for digital membership registers and statutory notices.
At the state level, the APC has already deployed the consensus option in constituting party structures, although disruptions in some states—such as Zamfara, where a congress rerun is planned following political realignments—highlight ongoing internal adjustments.
Party sources say aspirants are struggling to strategise their campaigns amid uncertainty over whether candidates will emerge through negotiations among party leaders or through broader participation.
“There is confusion because no one is sure how the consensus arrangement will play out”, a party insider said, noting that many hopefuls are waiting for clearer direction before making decisive moves.
Despite the tension, indications suggest that the presidential primary may adopt a different approach. While direct primaries are being considered, insiders say the process could ultimately amount to an affirmation of Tinubu’s candidacy, given the growing endorsements across states and zones.
