APC Disqualifies 63 Rivers Assembly Aspirants in 2027 Screening, Citing Violations

The All Progressives Congress (APC) screening committee for the Rivers State House of Assembly primaries has disqualified 63 aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections, in a move that is already reshaping political alignments in the state.

According to the report, many of those affected are believed to be loyal to Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, while 33 aspirants cleared for the primaries are reportedly aligned with supporters of former Governor Nyesom Wike.

Among those disqualified are former factional Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Victor Oko-Jumbo, and former Obio/Akpor Local Government Chairman, Chijioke Ihunwo.

The screening committee said the disqualifications were based on multiple constitutional and procedural breaches within the party’s nomination process. These include failure to meet financial obligations, incomplete documentation, and inconsistencies in personal data.

Other reasons listed by the committee included failure to submit valid voter cards, missing party membership records, insufficient nominators, and irregular membership details. The panel also alleged cases of bribery attempts involving committee members.

The report further stated that some nominations were submitted by individuals who were not financially up to date with party dues, while others failed to meet basic eligibility requirements outlined in the APC constitution.

Out of the 33 aspirants cleared for the primaries, 16 are currently serving members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Political observers say the development underscores deepening internal divisions within the Rivers APC, particularly the rivalry between camps aligned with Governor Fubara and those loyal to Wike, which continues to shape party dynamics ahead of 2027.

The screening outcome is expected to intensify political tensions in the state as aspirants weigh their next moves ahead of the primaries.