By Our Correspondent
National News – The All Progressives Congress (APC) is battling a growing internal crisis following its governorship, National Assembly and state House of Assembly primaries, with fears of defections, court cases and anti-party activities threatening the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The disputes have emerged across several states, including Lagos, Delta, Zamfara, Kogi, Plateau, Benue and Osun, where aggrieved aspirants have challenged the outcomes of the primaries.
The controversy intensified after at least 54 serving federal lawmakers failed to secure APC tickets during the party’s National Assembly primaries held between May 16 and 18, 2026.
Several senators and House of Representatives members rejected the results, alleging manipulation, irregularities and unfair processes.
Some aspirants have already filed petitions, while others are considering legal action.
In Delta State, former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege left the APC for the National Democratic Congress after losing his senatorial bid.
Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, and former Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Adamu also exited the party after unsuccessful governorship aspirations.
Party insiders say more defections could follow as consultations continue among dissatisfied members.
Lagos State has emerged as a major flashpoint. Party leaders and aspirants expressed concerns over alleged result distortions and growing divisions within the APC.
Members of the Alimosho Synergy Group rejected the published primary results, insisting they did not reflect votes cast and calling for intervention from the party’s national leadership.
The crisis has also triggered petitions in Delta, Zamfara, Kogi, Plateau and Benue states.
Senator Ned Nwoko challenged the Delta North senatorial primary outcome, while former Zamfara governorship aspirant Sani Shinkafi filed a court case seeking a fresh primary.
Several other aspirants have demanded reviews of the electoral process.
Despite the unrest, APC leaders have downplayed the threat of mass defections.
Kwara APC Chairman Sunday Fagbemi described the warnings as empty threats and urged aggrieved members to use the party’s internal conflict-resolution mechanisms.
However, analysts warn that unresolved grievances could weaken the ruling party’s electoral strength ahead of the 2027 elections.
