APC NWC Holds Exclusive Power to Certify Candidates

Demola Ijabiyi, the chairman of the P-BAT Mandate Elder Forum, stated that the APC National Working Committee (NWC) has the exclusive power to certify candidates, particularly in light of controversies surrounding the outcomes of the APC primaries in Ondo State. Ijabiyi clarified that declarations made at the primary election venue are subject to review and must be validated by the NWC in accordance with the party's constitution.

He explained that the NWC requires reports from the party's national leadership regarding the conduct of the primaries, which are essential for the final consideration of aspirants. Ijabiyi stressed that the political party retains the authority to review the primaries to correct any irregularities or breaches of established guidelines, which safeguard the integrity of the nomination process.

He urged aggrieved aspirants to utilize the party's internal dispute resolution mechanisms rather than relying solely on declarations made at the primary venue. Furthermore, he clarified the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as merely a monitoring body without the constitutional mandate to certify or endorse candidates.