By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
The ruling All Progressives Congress has dismissed reports claiming that its 2027 presidential primary election was postponed, insisting that the exercise will go ahead as scheduled on May 23, 2026.
In a statement issued by Felix Morka, the party described the circulating reports on social media and other communication platforms as “false and misleading,” reaffirming that no changes had been made to its approved timetable for the 2027 general elections.
According to the schedule released by the party, the house of representatives primary election will hold on May 15, while the senate primary is fixed for May 18. The state house of assembly primary election is expected on May 20, followed by the governorship primary on May 21, before the presidential primary on May 23.
“The reports suggesting a postponement are entirely untrue,” the party said, insisting that all preparations were on course.
The clarification comes amid heightened political activities and intense speculation within the ruling party over the 2027 succession race, with several camps already mobilising ahead of the primaries.
The development also follows the commencement of the APC’s screening of incumbent governors seeking to participate in the next electoral cycle. Governors screened by the committee include Abba Yusuf, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Nasir Idris, Caleb Mutfwang and Hyacinth Alia. Others screened include Sheriff Oborevwori, Umar Bago, Dauda Lawal, Bassey Otu and Ahmed Aliyu.
Political observers say the APC’s decision to publicly deny the postponement rumours may be aimed at calming growing anxiety among aspirants and party loyalists, while projecting internal stability ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested presidential race.
The announcement is likely to intensify consultations, alliance-building and behind-the-scenes negotiations among top party figures in the coming days as the countdown to the presidential primary begins.
