The Arise group has described the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) primary process ahead of the 2027 elections as a “sham,” calling on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene in order to restore internal democracy within the ruling party.
In a strongly worded statement, the group alleged that the conduct of the primaries fell short of democratic standards, claiming that the exercise was marred by irregularities, lack of transparency, and undue influence by powerful political interests within the party.
According to the group, the outcome of the primaries has raised serious concerns among party members and stakeholders who feel excluded from the process, warning that such practices could undermine the APC’s credibility and electoral strength going into 2027.
Arise argued that internal democracy is essential for political stability and public trust, insisting that the current situation risks alienating grassroots supporters and weakening party cohesion.
The group therefore urged President Tinubu, as leader of the APC, to step in and ensure that the party’s nomination processes are reviewed and aligned with democratic principles, fairness, and inclusiveness.
They maintained that the president’s intervention would help restore confidence among aggrieved aspirants and supporters who believe they were unfairly treated during the selection process.
“Without urgent corrective action, the APC risks internal fractures that could affect its performance in the general elections,” the group warned.
The statement has added to ongoing debates within Nigeria’s political space over party primaries, candidate selection processes, and the role of leadership in resolving internal disputes ahead of major elections.
In recent election cycles, Nigerian political parties have frequently faced criticism over allegations of imposition, delegate manipulation, and lack of transparency during primaries — issues that analysts say continue to challenge the country’s democratic consolidation.
Political observers note that calls for presidential intervention in party matters reflect both the centralised nature of party politics in Nigeria and the influence of incumbency in shaping internal party outcomes.
The APC has yet to issue an official response to the latest allegations at the time of filing this report.
However, party officials have previously maintained that its internal processes are guided by established rules and democratic procedures, and that disputes are handled through internal mechanisms such as appeal panels and reconciliation committees.
As preparations for 2027 gradually intensify, analysts say disputes over primaries and candidate selection are likely to remain a major source of tension within major political parties.
They warn that how parties manage internal disagreements could play a significant role in determining their unity, electoral strength, and public perception in the lead-up to the elections.
For now, the Arise group’s comments add fresh pressure on the APC leadership to address lingering grievances and strengthen internal cohesion ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive electoral cycle.
