Fresh concerns have emerged over the credibility of figures released from the recent primary elections of Nigeria’s ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), following claims that the total number of votes recorded significantly exceeded the party’s publicly known membership strength.
The concerns were raised in a piece by Akeem Olaniyi Adebomojo from Ekiti State, who questioned what he described as inconsistencies between APC’s membership register and the number of votes reportedly cast during the exercise.
According to the position canvassed in the piece, APC reportedly announced that 14,002,661 votes were cast nationwide during its recent primary exercise. However, the article argued that the party’s membership register reflects approximately 6,531,205 members, creating a discrepancy of more than seven million votes.
“The numbers coming out of APC’s recent primaries are raising eyebrows for all the wrong reasons,” the writer stated.
The opinion maintained that in electoral systems where transparency standards are strictly enforced, such a numerical gap would immediately trigger public scrutiny and institutional questioning.
“Let’s be direct. If you have 6.5 million people on record as members, you cannot credibly produce 14 million votes without an explanation,” the writer argued, adding that the figures either point to an outdated register or raise questions regarding the conduct and reporting process.
The article further warned that beyond internal party processes, such concerns could carry broader implications for public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“This isn’t just about internal party housekeeping. It’s about what it signals for 2027,” the piece stated, arguing that questions surrounding party processes could shape public perception of electoral credibility.
Adebomojo also suggested that relevant stakeholders, including civil society groups, opposition parties, electoral institutions and the media — should seek clarity regarding the figures and their interpretation.
“How did 14 million people vote in a party with 6.5 million registered members? Where did the extra votes come from? Were non-members allowed to participate? Was the register padded? Was the result inflated?” the opinion asked.
Political analysts note that party primaries often serve as the foundation for larger electoral processes, meaning unresolved controversies at that stage can influence wider confidence in future elections.
However, analysts also point out that explanations may vary depending on the methodology used in party exercises, including direct primaries, updated membership databases, or administrative reporting structures.
Potential consequences of unresolved concerns could include intensified political debate, increased scrutiny from opposition parties, public distrust in electoral processes, and renewed calls for reforms in internal party democracy.
The writer concluded with a warning that transparency questions should not be ignored.
“Silence now is permission for worse later,” the article stated.
