Abuja, March 28, 2026 —
Fresh details have emerged linking the chaos at the All Progressives Congress (APC) 8th National Convention to disputes over the party’s newly unveiled National Working Committee (NWC) list.
The list, which surfaced during proceedings at Eagle Square, reportedly triggered outrage among sections of party delegates who alleged imposition of candidates and lack of transparency in the selection process.
At the center of the controversy is the emergence of Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as National Chairman, alongside other key appointments across party leadership positions. While many of the roles were said to have been filled through “consensus arrangements” aimed at avoiding internal conflict, dissenting voices within the party rejected the process, insisting it undermined internal democracy.
Aggrieved delegates and supporters were seen protesting and attempting to gain access to the venue to challenge the outcome. The situation quickly escalated as security operatives moved to disperse the crowd.
Police responded by firing tear gas at protesters, journalists, and bystanders gathered outside the venue, leading to panic and disorder. Eyewitness videos captured chaotic scenes of individuals fleeing, coughing, and struggling to breathe, with some reportedly collapsing amid the confusion.
Critics within the party argue that the disputed list reflects deeper fractures within the APC, particularly over the increasing use of consensus candidacy in place of open contestation. Some members described the development as a “managed outcome” rather than a democratic exercise.
Despite the unrest outside, proceedings continued inside the venue, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other top party leaders pressing ahead with the convention agenda, including ratification of the NWC and renewed calls for unity ahead of future elections.
As of press time, party officials have yet to issue a detailed response addressing both the disputed list and the use of force against protesting members.
The incident underscores growing tensions within the ruling party and raises broader concerns about internal democracy, crisis management, and the optics of security intervention at a major political gathering.
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