BREAKING: All Progressives Congress Adopts Direct Primaries Nationwide, Rules Out Consensus Candidates

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced that it will adopt direct primaries across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory ahead of the 2026 election cycle, effectively ruling out the use of consensus candidates.

In a formal communication to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and party members nationwide, the APC leadership said the decision reflects its commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and inclusiveness in candidate selection.

Under the new arrangement, all registered party members will participate directly in choosing candidates for various elective positions.

According to the party’s timetable, the primary elections will be conducted as follows:

Presidential primaries: May 15–16, 2026

House of Representatives primaries: May 18, 2026

Senate primaries: May 20, 2026

State House of Assembly primaries: May 21, 2026

Governorship primaries: May 23, 2026

The APC assured aspirants of a level playing field, emphasizing that the process will give equal opportunity to all contestants.

The development comes amid shifting dynamics within Nigeria’s political landscape, as parties intensify preparations for the upcoming electoral cycle. Observers say the adoption of direct primaries could significantly shape candidate emergence and influence internal party competition across the country.