APC Faces Internal Crisis Over Primaries and Disqualifications

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is facing internal strife as at least 26 serving lawmakers lost their return tickets during the primaries, with several aspirants disqualified. Allegations of manipulation and a lack of democratic standards have emerged, particularly in Rivers, Edo, and Kwara states.

APC's national secretary, Felix Morka, confirmed that 14 aspirants were disqualified during the screening process, which did not provide specific reasons. Notable disqualifications include serving lawmakers Iduma Igariwei, Awaji Inombek, and Boma Goodhead.

The political crisis in Rivers is exacerbated by the rivalry between factions loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike. In Edo, House Leader Julius Ihonvber and lawmaker Esosa Iyaw have rejected their disqualification results, citing widespread irregularities.

The situation has led to threats of litigation from aggrieved lawmakers, indicating a deepening fracture within the party as it prepares for the 2027 elections.