By Wellington Jopelo
Serious tension is spreading across the All Progressives Congress after more than 150 aspirants were reportedly disqualified during ongoing pre-primary screening exercises ahead of the 2027 elections.
The mass disqualification has triggered protests, petitions, legal threats, and accusations of candidate imposition in several states, exposing widening cracks inside the ruling party.
Many affected aspirants and their supporters now claim the screening process is being used by powerful political figures to secretly decide candidates before the actual primaries take place.
The controversy is especially intense in states where governors and influential party leaders are allegedly pushing for consensus candidates instead of open contests.
Party insiders revealed that complaints have emerged from different parts of the country, with some aspirants accusing screening committees of unfair treatment, selective disqualification, and politically motivated decisions.
In Rivers State, the crisis became more dramatic after reports claimed that dozens of aspirants linked to Governor Siminalayi Fubara were disqualified while candidates believed to be loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike were cleared.
The development has further deepened political tension in the state and increased fears of a major internal battle ahead of the APC primaries.
Some disqualified aspirants across the country are already threatening court action, insisting that the screening exercises were manipulated to favour selected individuals.
Others accused party leaders of turning the primaries into a “mere formality,” arguing that winners appear to have been decided before delegates even vote.
The situation has also reignited concerns over internal democracy within the APC as politicians continue heavy lobbying and alliance-building ahead of 2027.
Political observers believe the growing crisis reflects a larger struggle for control inside the party, especially as governors, lawmakers, and influential stakeholders battle to secure loyal candidates.
Despite the backlash, APC officials insist the screening process is necessary to maintain party discipline and ensure only qualified aspirants participate in the primaries.
However, with protests and disagreements spreading in different states, many party members fear the crisis could lead to deeper divisions and possible defections if not properly managed.
As screening exercises continue nationwide, attention is now focused on whether the APC leadership can calm the growing unrest before the party enters its full primary season.