APC House Primary Elections Marked by Incumbent Defeats and Disputes

The All Progressives Congress concluded its nationwide primary elections for the House of Representatives over the weekend, a process that affirmed numerous candidates but was marked by significant defeats for incumbent lawmakers and disputes in several states. The primaries, a key step in selecting the ruling party's lineup for the 2027 general elections, exposed internal party dynamics and operational challenges.

In Benue State, the contests highlighted a notable political shift, with at least six sitting representatives described as loyal to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, losing their bids. Their successful challengers are widely perceived to have the backing of the state's Governor, Hyacinth Alia. Among the prominent winners was Blessing Onuh, daughter of former Senate President David Mark, who secured the APC ticket for Otukpo/Ohimini. Regina Akume, wife of the SGF, retained the party's ticket for Gboko/Tarka. The primary in Buruku Federal Constituency was reportedly marred by irregularities, including the snatching of election results in one ward.

This pattern of upsets repeated in other states. In Plateau, the Chairman of the House...