APC Adopts Direct Primaries Nationwide, Rules Out Consensus Candidates

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially announced its decision to conduct direct primary elections across all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory ahead of the 2026 election cycle.

Hotnews gathered under the direct primaries model, all registered party members are given the opportunity to vote for their preferred aspirants, replacing the delegate-based (indirect) system where only a select few determined party candidates.

This move is widely seen as an effort to expand participation, enhance transparency, and reduce influence of political godfathers in candidate selection based on preferences.

In a formal notification to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and party members nationwide, the APC leadership made it clear that there will be no room for consensus candidacy, emphasizing a commitment to transparency and internal democracy.

According to the released timetable, the party’s primaries will hold as follows:

1. Presidential Primaries: May 15–16, 2026
2. House of Representatives Primaries: May 18, 2026
3. Senate Primaries: May 20, 2026
4. State House of Assembly Primaries: May 21, 2026
5. Governorship Primaries: May 23, 2026

The party assured all aspirants of a level playing field, noting that every member will have the opportunity to participate directly.

~ Hot News Reporters
4, May, 2026