The All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to hold primary elections for candidates vying for the 360 House of Representatives seats across Nigeria, as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The exercise will take place across all 8,809 wards in the country’s 774 local government areas, allowing all registered APC members to participate in the direct primary process.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged party members to ensure a peaceful, fair, and transparent process, stressing that the primaries represent a crucial test of the party’s unity and democratic strength.
He described the exercise as more than a candidate selection process, calling it an opportunity to strengthen internal cohesion and reinforce shared party values.
Tinubu also encouraged consensus arrangements where possible, noting that such agreements could help reduce internal conflict and promote harmony within the party.
However, where consensus fails, the president urged aspirants and delegates to conduct themselves with discipline and respect, warning against actions that could divide the party.
He advised winners to avoid arrogance and called on those who lose to accept outcomes in good faith while preparing for future opportunities.
The president also instructed governors, party leaders, and stakeholders to ensure fairness by providing equal opportunity to all aspirants throughout the process.
He further emphasized the importance of including women and youth in the electoral process, describing them as vital to the party’s future and Nigeria’s democratic development.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has directed Resident Electoral Commissioners to monitor the primaries nationwide, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the Constitution.
INEC confirmed that 19 political parties have submitted their schedules for the primaries ahead of the 2027 elections.
Despite earlier efforts by party leaders to promote consensus arrangements, the APC National Working Committee has now resolved to proceed with direct primaries in all wards following widespread resistance from aspirants.
Party officials confirmed that the decision was taken to ensure inclusivity and reduce tensions arising from disputes over candidate selection.
The APC primaries will continue in phases, with senatorial elections scheduled for Monday, House of Assembly primaries on Wednesday, governorship primaries on May 21, and the presidential primary on May 23.
The party has expressed confidence that the process will strengthen internal democracy and position it strongly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
