APC Set To Release Cleared Aspirants List As 2027 Race Intensifies
A Defining Moment for APC’s Internal Power Structure
THE All Progressives Congress is on the verge of releasing its list of cleared aspirants following a rigorous screening exercise that has become one of the most consequential internal processes ahead of the 2027 elections.
The exercise, conducted under strict party guidelines and aligned with the schedule of the Independent National Electoral Commission, is expected to shape political fortunes within the ruling party for the next electoral cycle.
At stake are hundreds of political ambitions spanning federal and state offices, with outcomes that could redefine internal party hierarchies.
Thousands Screened in High-Stakes Political Contest
Between 8 and 12 May, the APC screened thousands of aspirants seeking tickets across various levels of government.
The process, coordinated by a committee led by National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, covered an unusually broad field of contestants, including:
- Presidential aspirants
- Governorship contenders
- National Assembly hopefuls
- State legislative candidates
Party insiders describe the exercise as one of the most extensive internal screenings in recent APC history.
Governors, Lawmakers and Political Veterans in Competition
The screening list included a mix of serving governors, former governors, federal lawmakers, and influential party actors.
Notable figures include:
- Benjamin Kalu (Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives)
- Hope Uzodimma (Imo State Governor)
- Senator Gbenga Daniel
- Former Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo
- Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya
The presence of such heavyweights underscores the intensity of internal competition and the high stakes involved in securing APC tickets.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara also attracted attention, reportedly leaving the screening venue abruptly, a move that has fuelled speculation about his political positioning.
Appeal Process and Internal Safeguards
The party has provided a formal appeals mechanism for aspirants dissatisfied with screening outcomes, particularly those disqualified or flagged over documentation concerns.
The appeal structure is expected to play a crucial role in managing post-screening tensions and preventing factional disputes.
Cleared aspirants will move on to primaries scheduled for mid-to-late May.
Tinubu’s Uncontested Position Highlights Party Dynamics
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains the dominant figure within the APC presidential race, with only one challenger emerging—Osifo Stanley.
The party’s decision to waive screening requirements for the president reflects his entrenched position within the party structure and broad institutional support.
While symbolic competition exists, analysts see the presidential race as largely settled internally.
Managing Unity Ahead of a High-Pressure Election Cycle
Party leadership has issued strong warnings against violence, sabotage, and anti-party activity during the primaries.
Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda stressed that discipline and internal cohesion will be critical as the party moves toward 2027.
The APC’s ability to manage internal competition without fragmentation is expected to be a key test of its political stability heading into the next general elections.
