Tension is quietly building within the ranks of the All Progressives Congress as governorship and National Assembly aspirants grapple with growing uncertainty over how the party intends to pick its candidates ahead of the primaries.
Across several states, hopefuls are said to be increasingly uneasy, unsure of where they stand as talks of a “consensus arrangement” continue to dominate internal party calculations. For many, the fear is simple: decisions may be made behind closed doors, leaving little room for open contest.
According to the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission, party primaries are scheduled to hold between April 23 and May 30. Political parties are also required to submit their digital membership registers and give at least 21 days’ notice before conducting any primary.
While the APC appears well ahead in terms of preparation, having completed its ward, local government, and state congresses, with zonal congresses set for March 25 the real anxiety lies in how candidates will eventually emerge.
At the state level, the party has largely relied on consensus to produce its leadership structures, a move that is now fueling speculation that the same method may be extended to select candidates for governorship, National Assembly, and even state assembly elections.
In states where sitting governors are seeking re-election, the situation seems clearer, as incumbents traditionally hold strong influence over party structures. But in states without incumbent governors or where power is about to change hands, the atmosphere is far more tense.
Many aspirants in such states are said to be in limbo—unsure whether to intensify campaigns or wait for party leaders to decide their fate.
A party insider described the mood as one of confusion and quiet panic. According to the source, aspirants are struggling to understand how the consensus option will be implemented and who truly decides the final list.
“They say it will be consensus for governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and even state assemblies. But no one really knows how it will play out. For now, everyone is just watching and waiting,” the source revealed.
The uncertainty, it was gathered, has slowed down momentum for many aspirants, as they remain cautious about investing heavily in campaigns that may ultimately be decided by party hierarchy.
Meanwhile, for the presidential ticket, the party is said to be leaning towards direct primaries. However, insiders suggest that even this process may largely be symbolic, as many states and zones have already aligned behind the president, making a consensus-style affirmation likely.
With timelines drawing closer, the coming weeks will be decisive, not just for who emerges, but for how transparent and inclusive the process will appear to party members and the wider public.
