APC Primary: Tinubu Wins Amid Legitimacy Concerns

The All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary took place on May 23, 2023, where Bola Ahmed Tinubu was announced as the winner with 10,999,967 votes. The primary was conducted under a tight deadline imposed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which required the process to conclude by May 30.

This led to fears of judicial consequences following a Federal High Court ruling by Justice Mohammad G. Umar, which nullified INEC's deadline.

The primary's conduct raised significant concerns regarding its legitimacy, as many candidates, including Anyim Pius Anyim, were reportedly not seen voting, suggesting a lack of genuine competition. The process was criticized for being a mere formality, with party leaders allegedly deciding outcomes without actual voting.

Additionally, the electoral act's provisions limited candidates' options, leading to disillusionment among APC members who felt deceived by the process. The outcome has left many party members, including 242 members of the House of Representatives and 88 senators, without tickets for the upcoming elections.