APC’s Candidate Selection Crisis: A Recipe for Electoral Defeat in 2027 -By Yasir Shehu Adam

The recent wave of candidate selections within the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised serious concerns about internal democracy, fairness, and respect for the wishes of party members. What many expected to be a transparent and democratic process has, in several places, appeared more like a political coronation than a genuine primary election.

For years, Nigerians were told that direct primaries would strengthen democracy within political parties by allowing ordinary members to choose their candidates. The idea was simple: give power to the grassroots and reduce the influence of political godfathers. Unfortunately, recent events suggest that this promise is far from reality.

In many states, including Bauchi, party members and supporters have expressed frustration over what they see as the imposition of candidates. In some cases, there was little evidence of either direct or indirect primaries. Instead, candidates appeared to emerge through decisions made by a few powerful individuals, regardless of the preferences of party members.

This development is dangerous for any political party that hopes to win public trust. Democracy loses its meaning when the voices of ordinary members are ignored. A political party cannot expect loyalty from its supporters while denying them the right to participate meaningfully in selecting their candidates.

Bauchi State presents a clear example of the growing dissatisfaction among party supporters. Many members believe that the party ignored popular and credible aspirants in favour of individuals who do not enjoy broad support among the people. Such decisions have created anger, disappointment, and a sense of betrayal among loyal party members.

The concern is not personal. It is about competence, credibility, and electability. When candidates are imposed rather than chosen through a transparent process, the party risks presenting individuals who may struggle to convince voters that they deserve public office.

The situation in Bauchi South Senatorial District has generated similar concerns. Many supporters question whether the selected candidate possesses the capacity, vision, and communication skills necessary to effectively represent the people and defend their interests at the National Assembly.

What is even more worrying is that these complaints are not limited to Bauchi alone. Across the country, many APC members have raised similar concerns. There is a growing belief that a large number of candidates emerging from the process are not necessarily the people’s preferred choices.

Political leaders must understand that Nigeria has changed. This is the 21st century. Citizens are becoming more informed, more politically conscious, and less willing to accept decisions imposed upon them without consultation. The era when a few individuals could decide the fate of millions behind closed doors is gradually coming to an end.

The resignation of party members from key positions in protest should serve as a warning sign. These resignations reflect a deeper crisis of confidence within the party. Ignoring such signals could have serious consequences in future elections.

The APC must understand that elections are not won by party structures alone. They are won through the support, trust, and enthusiasm of the people. When party members feel excluded, they become demoralized. When voters feel ignored, they look elsewhere for representation.

If urgent corrective measures are not taken, the consequences could be severe in the 2027 general elections. A party that refuses to listen to its members today may be forced to listen to the verdict of voters tomorrow.

The APC still has an opportunity to correct course. The party leadership must demonstrate fairness, transparency, and respect for democratic principles. It must ensure that candidates emerge through credible processes rather than political influence and personal interests.

Democracy is not merely about winning elections; it is about allowing the people to choose those who represent them. Any political party that abandons this principle does so at its own peril.

The message from many party members is simple: let the people decide. Anything less risks turning electoral victory into electoral defeat.

Yasir Shehu Adam (Dan Liman)
Journalist and Writer, Bauchi State, Nigeria