2027: Kogi APC group warns against imposition of candidates

A group of leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Kogi State has appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the ruling party to ensure that the selection of National Assembly candidates for the 2027 general elections is driven by grassroots support rather than elite endorsements.

The group, operating under the banner of Concerned APC Leaders, made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday in Lokoja and signed by its Secretary, Mohammed Tijani.

The stakeholders cautioned against relying solely on recommendations from a few influential party figures, arguing that such endorsements may not accurately reflect the wishes of APC members across the state.

“We believe the President should rely on extensive consultations and objective assessments of candidates’ popularity and acceptability among party members and the electorate,” the group said.

The appeal comes amid growing political realignments and early permutations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with political actors across the country already positioning themselves for key elective offices.

According to the statement, aspirants with demonstrable grassroots support and established political structures should be allowed to participate freely in the party’s candidate selection process without undue interference.

The group maintained that a transparent and inclusive primary election process would strengthen the party’s chances of retaining its dominance in Kogi State and securing victory in the next electoral cycle.

It warned that any perception of favouritism, exclusion, or the imposition of candidates could trigger dissatisfaction among party members and undermine internal cohesion ahead of the polls.

“Several aspirants being considered for National Assembly positions have established political structures and support bases capable of contributing to the party’s electoral success,” the group said.

The stakeholders further argued that APC’s long-term stability in Kogi would depend on its commitment to internal democracy, fairness, and equal opportunities for all aspirants.

They therefore urged President Tinubu and the APC national leadership to ensure that all stakeholders are adequately consulted and carried along in decisions concerning the party’s electoral strategy in the state.

According to the statement, preserving unity and confidence in the primary election process would not only strengthen the APC’s position in Kogi State but also improve its prospects in the 2027 general elections.

The appeal reflects a broader debate within Nigeria’s political parties over internal democracy and candidate selection processes. In recent election cycles, allegations of candidate imposition and exclusion of grassroots members have sparked disputes and defections across several states, prompting repeated calls for more transparent and participatory primaries.

The Kogi APC leaders also called on party officials, elected representatives, and aspirants to place the interests of the party above personal ambitions and avoid actions capable of deepening divisions within its ranks as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.