North-Central APC opposes primaries
The North-Central chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected calls for sitting governors seeking a second term to participate in party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections, arguing that such a move would undermine party stability and weaken its electoral strength.
The position was made public in a statement issued on Thursday by the Chairman of the North-Central APC Forum, Saleh Zazzaga, who described sitting governors as the party’s most valuable political assets.
The forum’s declaration comes amid growing internal debate following remarks by APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, who was quoted as saying that there would be no automatic tickets for governors or other elected officeholders seeking re-election.
In response, the regional forum said North-Central APC opposes primaries for sitting governors, insisting that subjecting incumbent governors to competitive primaries would be unnecessary and potentially disruptive.
According to the forum, sitting governors play a central role in strengthening the party’s electoral base and maintaining political cohesion.
“Sitting governors are the biggest assets of the party,” the statement said. “It would be counterproductive to subject them to primaries when they have demonstrated leadership and contributed significantly to the party’s success.”
The forum further noted that North-Central APC opposes primaries for sitting governors because such a tradition has rarely been applied to incumbents seeking second terms since Nigeria returned to democratic governance in 1999.
Historically, presidents and governors seeking re-election have often secured their party nominations without facing significant internal opposition.
The forum argued that this approach reflects political reality, where incumbency provides advantages in governance continuity, political stability and electoral preparedness.
Political analysts say the debate highlights ongoing tensions within the APC as the party prepares for the 2027 elections.
While some party leaders advocate open primaries to promote internal democracy, others believe automatic tickets for incumbents help prevent internal divisions.
The fact that North-Central APC opposes primaries for sitting governors reflects concerns that competitive primaries could weaken incumbents ahead of general elections.
Supporters of automatic tickets argue that sitting governors have established political structures and governance records that strengthen the party’s electoral chances.
They also note that internal contests could create divisions that opposition parties might exploit.
However, proponents of competitive primaries argue that internal elections are essential for maintaining democratic principles within political parties.
They say allowing open competition promotes accountability and gives party members a voice in selecting candidates.
Despite these arguments, the North-Central forum maintains that North-Central APC opposes primaries for sitting governors because incumbency provides continuity and strengthens governance.
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The forum also emphasised that governors seeking second terms often have ongoing policy initiatives that require continuity for effective implementation.
Disrupting such continuity, the forum argued, could undermine development efforts and weaken public confidence.
Observers note that the North-Central region remains politically strategic for the APC, with several governors expected to seek re-election in 2027.
As such, the forum’s position may influence broader party discussions on candidate selection.
The statement also urged the national leadership of the APC to consider the implications of its decisions on party unity and electoral success.
The forum said North-Central APC opposes primaries for sitting governors not to undermine democratic processes, but to protect the party’s interests and strengthen its chances in future elections.
Political analysts say the issue reflects broader questions about balancing internal democracy with political strategy.
They note that while open primaries promote transparency, political parties often adopt pragmatic approaches to candidate selection.
The APC National Chairman’s earlier remarks suggesting no automatic tickets had been interpreted by some party members as a signal of reform.
However, the North-Central forum’s response indicates resistance to such changes, particularly among regional stakeholders.
As North-Central APC opposes primaries for sitting governors, attention is expected to shift to the party’s national leadership and how it resolves the issue.
The outcome could shape internal party dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.
For now, the forum’s position underscores the importance of incumbency in Nigeria’s political system.
It also highlights ongoing debates about internal party democracy, electoral strategy and political continuity.
As preparations for the next election cycle gather momentum, the question of whether sitting governors should face primaries remains a critical issue within the APC.
The fact that North-Central APC opposes primaries for sitting governors ensures that the debate will continue to shape party politics in the coming months.
