APC convention nomination form crisis deepens as aspirants allege exclusion and internal tensions rise ahead of the party’s national convention
The All Progressives Congress (APC) is facing mounting internal tension ahead of its National Convention at Eagle Square, as allegations emerge from aspirants claiming they are being deliberately excluded through restricted access to nomination forms.
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The APC convention nomination form crisis has intensified scrutiny of the party’s internal processes just days before the March 26 and 27 convention, with multiple aspirants alleging what they describe as a “tactical approach” to limit participation in key leadership contests.
Ambassador Dagogo Fubara, Director General of the APC States Assembly Forum and aspirant for the Zonal Vice Chairman (South-South) position, has formally petitioned the party leadership, accusing officials of blocking his access to nomination forms despite fulfilling financial requirements.
Fubara stated that he paid N5.1 million but was repeatedly denied access to the forms, alleging that the delay appeared intentional.
He warned that the situation risked undermining the credibility of the convention process.
In his petition, Fubara said the process of completing nomination documents was time-consuming and insisted that the handling of the exercise raised concerns about fairness and transparency.
Another aspirant, Oyiborume Paul Yovwe, who is contesting for the position of National Secretary, also alleged irregularities after reportedly being told his desired position had already been allocated.
Yovwe said he had followed official procedures and paid N7.5 million for the nomination process.
However, the APC maintains that its zoning arrangement remains binding for the upcoming convention, effectively limiting eligibility for certain positions based on geopolitical considerations.
The APC convention nomination form crisis is further complicated by internal party directives confirming that positions such as National Secretary have been zoned, with leadership insisting aspirants must comply with the established framework.
Party spokesperson Felix Morka reiterated that the zoning structure remains valid and applicable, advising aspirants to adhere strictly to its guidelines.
Meanwhile, concerns have grown that nomination forms for key positions may have been limited or pre-assigned, raising further questions about inclusivity within the party’s internal democratic process.
Supporters of National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda have also purchased nomination forms on his behalf, signalling growing alignment among influential party blocs ahead of the convention.
Despite the controversy, party officials maintain that no individual has been barred from participating, stressing that the process is guided by constitutional provisions and internal zoning arrangements designed to ensure order and balance.
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As the convention approaches, competing interests within the APC continue to heighten uncertainty, with political observers closely watching whether the party can maintain unity through one of its most consequential internal elections in recent years.
