By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
The growing reliance on consensus candidate selection within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is fueling widespread tension, internal resistance, and shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Investigations indicate that the strategy, designed to reduce intra-party conflict and campaign costs, is instead provoking allegations of imposition, sidelining of aspirants, and intensifying regional grievances that could weaken party cohesion.
The controversy gained fresh traction following protests by former Cross River State governor, Ben Ayade, who disclosed that he was asked during a meeting in Abuja to withdraw from the Cross River North senatorial race.
In an emotional reaction, he said, “I yield to his request even as I pour tears of ill treatment and agony,” a statement that has amplified concerns over alleged interference from the presidency led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Across several states, party members have expressed frustration over what they perceive as a pre-arranged process that undermines democratic participation.
Although APC leaders insist that consensus is lawful, critics argue that its application often ignores provisions of Nigeria’s electoral framework overseen by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Defending the system, Senate Majority Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele maintained that consensus does not eliminate competition. According to him, “A single objection is enough to trigger direct primaries,” stressing that “there’s nothing that can be done under the table.”
Despite this defense, the situation on the ground suggests otherwise. From the South-West to the South-East, disputes over zoning arrangements, re-election ambitions, and power rotation are intensifying cracks within the party. In Oyo and Ogun states, rival aspirants have rejected consensus endorsements, while in Lagos, suppressed dissent continues to simmer beneath the surface.
The tension is not limited to the APC alone. Nigeria’s broader political environment is witnessing increasing strain, with protests, legal battles, and accusations of institutional interference raising concerns about electoral credibility. Demonstrators in Abuja recently accused the federal government of undermining judicial independence, warning that “the moment justice is manipulated, the nation itself is placed on trial.”
Opposition parties are also grappling with internal and legal disputes. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has downplayed the exit of key figures and insists its convention plans remain on course. Meanwhile, controversy continues to trail the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), with critics questioning INEC’s procedures and transparency.
Analysts warn that the APC’s consensus approach, while intended as a stabilising mechanism, may produce the opposite effect by alienating grassroots members and encouraging defections or anti-party activities. In regions like the South-East, some stakeholders have described the process as “a new wave of political imposition,” arguing that it revives the culture of godfatherism.
The implications for 2027 are significant. Persistent discontent within the ruling party could weaken its electoral strength, fracture alliances, and open space for opposition parties to capitalise on internal divisions. At the same time, continued disputes involving INEC and the judiciary risk eroding public trust in Nigeria’s democratic process.
With political manoeuvring intensifying nationwide, the coming months are expected to test not only party unity but also the resilience of Nigeria’s electoral institutions.
