Delta APC Disqualifies 36 Aspirants Ahead of Primaries

The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) disqualified 36 aspirants from participating in the House of Assembly primaries scheduled for the 2027 general elections. The screening committee, which convened on May 10 and 11 at the party's secretariat in Asaba, cleared 46 aspirants but cited various irregularities for the disqualification of the others.

Allegations included bribery attempts, document inconsistencies, failure to present voter cards, and conflicts in date of birth. Notably disqualified aspirants included Frank Esenwah, a former deputy governor, and Festu Utuama, son of Prof. Amo Utuama.

The committee's statement indicated that a total of 82 aspirants participated in the screening process. Following the disqualification, there is significant tension within the party, particularly in constituencies with prominent aspirants.

Sources revealed that many disqualified aspirants are seeking legal advice to potentially appeal the decision, alleging procedural irregularities and manipulation of the screening process for political interests.