Nigeria's Political Parties Face Criticism Over Primaries

Recent primary elections in Nigeria have drawn widespread criticism for undemocratic practices, including allegations of electoral malpractice and the imposition of candidates. The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) are among the parties accused of disenfranchising genuine party members.

Notably, APC's Yusuf Tuggar claimed that no actual elections occurred in Bauchi State, where he alleged candidates were handpicked by party leaders. Similar claims were made by former Minister Isa Pantami, who withdrew from the Gombe State governorship primary due to violations of the Electoral Act.

In Delta North, APC's Ned Nwoko rejected the official results, asserting he secured 123,000 votes against 6,000 recorded for the declared winner, Ifeanyi Okowa. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has faced criticism for its handling of these elections, with calls for greater transparency and fairness in the electoral process.