By Our Correspondent
National News – The All Progressives Congress (APC) screening exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections recorded the absence of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the party assessed more than 14 serving governors and other aspirants.
The process, which began on May 8 and ends May 10, followed the sale of nomination forms that closed on May 6.
Governors including those from Kano, Gombe, Kebbi, Plateau, Benue, Delta and others were screened as primaries approach.
The exercise also featured presidential aspirant Stanley Osifo and set the stage for upcoming primaries under party guidelines.
The APC screening committee chaired by National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda and secretary Surajudeen Basiru evaluated sitting governors and presidential aspirants as part of preparations for the 2027 elections in Nigeria.
The exercise is part of internal party selection ahead of governorship, National Assembly and presidential primaries scheduled between May 15 and May 23.
While over 14 governors appeared for screening, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara was absent, though party officials said governors with official duties were excused and may be rescheduled.
Among those screened were Abba Yusuf of Kano, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Nasir Idris of Kebbi, Caleb Muftwang of Plateau, Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta and others.
The process also included presidential aspirant Stanley Osifo, described as the only challenger to President Bola Tinubu within the exercise.
According to the APC, the screening ensures compliance with party rules, the Electoral Act 2025, and allows either consensus or direct primaries.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed the 2027 general elections for January and February, with campaigns expected from August 2026.
The absence of Fubara has fueled political speculation in Rivers State amid his ongoing dispute with former governor Nyesom Wike, though party leaders insist his form was submitted through proxies.
The screening is intended to strengthen internal democracy and reduce disputes before appeals committees review grievances after primaries.
Appeals committees will handle disputes after each phase.
