Enugu APC Opens Doors to New Members, But Insists on Fair Primaries for 2027 Elections
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State has declared its readiness to welcome new members into its fold as it prepares for the 2027 general elections. However, the party has firmly stated that there will be no automatic tickets for any intending defectors, regardless of their political stature. Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, emphasized that all aspirants, including those defecting from other parties, will have to participate in the party primaries to secure the APC’s nomination for any elective position. This declaration aims to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants and prevent the hijacking of the party structure by newcomers.
Nnaji’s statement comes in response to reports of lobbying efforts by some “politically displaced politicians” seeking to join the APC and secure automatic tickets. He described these individuals as lacking a solid political base and moving from party to party without genuine commitment. While welcoming the influx of new members, the minister stressed that the APC will not compromise its internal democratic processes. He reiterated that even the highest-ranking political figures, including the President, would be required to contest in the primaries if they wish to run for governorship on the APC platform in Enugu State.
The minister’s pronouncements highlight the APC’s determination to build a strong and united party ahead of the 2027 elections. By emphasizing the importance of primaries, the party seeks to foster internal competition and ensure that the most popular and capable candidates emerge as its flag bearers. This approach is also intended to prevent the imposition of candidates, which could potentially lead to internal divisions and weaken the party’s electoral chances. The APC’s stance on open primaries signifies a commitment to internal democracy and transparency, which could resonate with voters seeking fair representation.
This declaration of open primaries has been met with mixed reactions within the political landscape. Some observers view it as a positive step toward strengthening internal party democracy and ensuring that only the most qualified individuals emerge as candidates. Others, however, express skepticism, arguing that the primaries may be manipulated to favor certain individuals or groups. The true test of the APC’s commitment to open primaries will lie in the transparency and fairness of the process leading up to the 2027 elections. The party will need to demonstrate that the playing field is truly level and that all aspirants have an equal opportunity to compete.
The emphasis on primaries also underscores the APC’s growing confidence in its ability to win elections in Enugu State. By opening its doors to new members and insisting on a competitive process, the party aims to attract a wider range of candidates and build a stronger base of support. The APC’s strategy appears to be aimed at positioning itself as the dominant party in the state and challenging the incumbent government. The success of this strategy will depend, in part, on the party’s ability to manage the influx of new members and maintain internal unity.
Further strengthening the APC’s position in Enugu State are recent defections from other parties. Three members of the House of Representatives who recently switched from the Labour Party to the APC have pledged their commitment to the party’s success in the upcoming elections. This signifies potential shifts in the political landscape, and the APC’s ability to capitalize on these changes will be crucial in determining its electoral performance. In addition, the Enugu Progressive Group, a political pressure group within the APC, has publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah for re-election in 2027. The group, which boasts members from all wards and local government areas in the state, cited federal projects and policy reforms as reasons for its endorsement of Tinubu. This internal support further solidifies the APC’s position as it gears up for the electoral contest.
