APC Primaries: Group Raises Alarm Over Alleged Candidate Imposition, Gender Bias
By Matthew Eloyi
A group under the auspices of the Fatherland Front for Growth and Development, has expressed concern over the fallout from the recently concluded primary elections conducted by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political parties across Nigeria, alleging irregularities, candidate imposition, and discrimination against women aspirants.
At a press conference in Abuja on Monday, the National Secretary of the group, Dr. Ak Peters acknowledged what he described as “general compliance” with the amended Electoral Act, especially the recognition of consensus and direct primaries. However, he maintained that some outcomes of the APC primaries failed to reflect democratic principles and the will of party members.
The group alleged that influential political figures and party godfathers manipulated the process in certain constituencies by imposing preferred candidates despite clear voting outcomes during the primaries.
Citing the Oyo North Senatorial District as an example, Peters noted that Dr. Gbenga Adegbola won convincingly in nine out of the 13 Local Government Areas but was allegedly denied recognition as the winner in favour of another aspirant.
He also condemned developments in the Kwara South Senatorial District, where Dr. Muheebah Dankaka was reportedly declared winner of the primary election but later denied the party ticket under what he described as “unjust and discriminatory circumstances.”
According to Peters, the development raises concerns about the continued marginalisation of women in Nigerian politics, noting that women currently occupy only five of the 109 seats in the Senate.
“Nigeria cannot afford to sideline capable women whose contributions are essential to achieving balance, inclusion and progressive national development,” he said.
Peters called on APC National Chairman, Prof. Yelwatda, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure justice and fairness prevail within the party’s internal processes.
He further urged the APC National Working Committee to investigate the alleged irregularities and uphold results that genuinely reflect the votes cast by party members.
The organisation also appealed to party members and supporters to remain calm and pursue all grievances through lawful and party-approved channels.
Fielding questions from journalists, the National Vice Chairman of the organisation, Dr MS Abubakar warned that external interference tempering with the will of the people would not do the party any good.
He noted that the organisation is not a political group but it has a civic responsibility to get involved in the way the country is being governed, hence the call on APC leadership to allow the system run its cause.