Protests Erupt Over Endorsement Moves Ahead of APC Primaries in Delta
Crisis Brews Over Endorsement Strategy
FRESH tensions have surfaced within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State as aspirants push back against moves by party leaders to endorse preferred candidates ahead of internal primaries.
The development has triggered protests and allegations of attempts to sideline eligible party members in the candidate selection process.
Allegations of Voter Disenfranchisement
A House of Representatives aspirant for Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai, raised concerns over what he described as plans by certain party leaders to manipulate the primary election process.
According to him, there were attempts to drastically reduce the number of eligible voters to a select group, allegedly limiting participation to about 100 individuals whose names would be forwarded to the party’s electoral panel.
He warned that such actions could disenfranchise legitimate party members and undermine internal democracy.
Legal and Constitutional Concerns
Ossai cited provisions within the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines, arguing that the alleged plan violates established rules governing primary elections.
He cautioned that any deviation from due process could trigger resistance from aggrieved members and deepen divisions within the party.
Chaos at Isoko North Meeting
In a related development, a stakeholders’ meeting in Isoko North Local Government Area descended into chaos following attempts to endorse a sole aspirant for the State House of Assembly.
The meeting, held in Ozoro, reportedly aimed to consolidate support for key political figures, including Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Sheriff Oborevwori, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, the endorsement of a particular aspirant sparked strong opposition from other contenders.
Aspirants Reject ‘Imposition’
One of the aggrieved aspirants, Princess Anebo, alongside another contender, openly rejected the move, describing it as an attempt to impose a candidate on party members.
She insisted that no individual or group within the party has the authority to override the democratic process, reaffirming her commitment to remain in the race.
Supporters of the protesting aspirants reportedly disrupted the meeting for hours, reflecting deep dissatisfaction with the endorsement exercise.
Implications for Party Unity
Political observers note that the unfolding crisis could have significant implications for party cohesion in Delta State.
As the APC prepares for the 2027 elections, the handling of its primaries is expected to play a crucial role in determining both its internal stability and electoral prospects.
