By Ranti Thomas
Thirteen sitting governors under the All Progressives Congress (APC) are set to return unopposed in the party’s governorship primaries across several states, as the ruling party moves closer to finalizing its candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
The development followed the conclusion of screening and internal consultations within the party, where most of the affected governors were either endorsed through consensus arrangements or left without challengers after rival aspirants stepped down.
Party sources say the decision reflects ongoing efforts by the APC leadership to reduce internal crises and avoid costly post-primary disputes that have previously affected election preparations in different states.
In several of the states, aspirants reportedly withdrew after consultations with party stakeholders, while in others, governors were said to have secured broad backing from party structures, including state executives and national leadership blocs.
The consensus outcomes are also linked to zoning agreements and succession plans already agreed within state chapters of the party, particularly in states where the APC is keen to maintain political stability and electoral advantage.
However, the process has continued to generate quiet tension in some quarters, with critics arguing that the increasing use of consensus arrangements is reducing competition and limiting internal democracy within the party.
Despite the concerns, APC officials maintain that the approach is aimed at strengthening unity and positioning the party for a stronger performance in the 2027 general elections.