Intense lobbying, protests, and political tension are shaking the APC as the party begins its primaries ahead of the 2027 elections, exposing growing internal battles over ticket control and party influence.

By Chisom Adaeze

Fresh political tensions are emerging within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress as the party officially begins its primary election process ahead of the 2027 general elections, triggering intense lobbying, internal negotiations, protests, and growing fears of division across several states.

The primaries, expected to determine candidates for key governorship, legislative, and presidential contests, have already exposed deep cracks within sections of the party as influential political blocs, governors, aspirants, and party stakeholders battle for control of party tickets and strategic positions.

Reports indicate that tensions are particularly high in states including Kano, Kaduna, Taraba, Oyo, Yobe, and Abia, where disagreements over consensus arrangements, zoning expectations, and allegations of candidate imposition have reportedly led to protests and collapsed negotiations among party members.

Political insiders say behind-the-scenes lobbying has intensified as aspirants seek endorsements from influential figures within the party, including governors, ministers, lawmakers, and key allies of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Analysts believe the struggle for political influence within the APC could shape not only the party’s internal stability but also the broader direction of Nigeria’s political landscape heading into 2027.

Concerned about the growing tension, President Tinubu has reportedly appealed to party members and aspirants to conduct themselves peacefully during the primaries and avoid actions capable of destabilizing the party.

The latest developments come amid increasing political realignments across Nigeria, with major parties already positioning themselves for what is expected to become a highly competitive election cycle. Within the APC, internal debates over succession planning, ticket allocation, regional balance, and loyalty to party leadership are becoming more visible as political camps strengthen their influence ahead of the elections.

Some party stakeholders have also expressed concerns about the growing influence of governors in determining candidates within their states, arguing that excessive control by powerful political figures could weaken internal democracy and create resentment among grassroots members. Similar concerns have surfaced in previous election cycles, where disputes over primaries contributed to defections and legal battles within political parties.

Observers say the APC leadership now faces the difficult task of maintaining party unity while balancing competing interests among powerful political actors nationwide. Analysts warn that unresolved disputes during the primaries could create long-term divisions capable of affecting the party’s performance in future elections.

Despite the tension, supporters of the ruling party insist the primaries represent a normal part of democratic competition and internal political negotiation. Party officials have continued to assure members that transparent processes and reconciliation efforts are ongoing to prevent major fractures.

The beginning of the APC primaries also signals the unofficial start of intensified political activity ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition parties equally increasing consultations, coalition talks, and grassroots mobilisation across the country.

As negotiations continue behind closed doors and political calculations evolve, attention now shifts to whether the APC can successfully manage its internal disputes while preserving cohesion ahead of one of Nigeria’s most anticipated election cycles in recent years.