The Adamawa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) denied reports that the party's primaries list was altered [1].
The denial comes amid growing tension within the party as candidates vie for legitimacy in the lead-up to general elections. Any perceived manipulation of candidate lists can lead to legal challenges and internal fractures that weaken a party's regional standing.
Party officials said the results of the primary elections remain unchanged [1]. This statement was issued to counter rumors circulating on social media and to preserve the legitimacy of the outcomes [1].
Despite the party's stance, the process has faced significant friction. Reports indicate that 70 aspirants protested and threatened to defect from the party due to alleged manipulation [2]. These protests highlight a deep divide between the party leadership and a large segment of its candidate pool.
Contradictory reports have surfaced regarding the integrity of the lists. While the APC maintains the official record is intact [1], other reports cited a leaked “Abuja list” that suggested candidates, including Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, were reassigned before voting occurred [3].
Further disputes involve specific candidates. Salihu Girei rejected his omission from the governorship primary list, saying he was wrongly left out [4]. However, the APC said that the official list remains unchanged and did not acknowledge any omission [1].
Earlier in the process, three aspirants, including Salihu, withdrew from the Adamawa APC governorship primary election [5]. The party continues to push back against claims of irregularity as it attempts to stabilize its ranks in the state.
“The APC denied any changes to the primaries list, stating the results remain intact.”
The discrepancy between the official APC narrative and the reports of a leaked 'Abuja list' suggests a crisis of trust within the Adamawa State party structure. When a significant number of aspirants—roughly 70—threaten defection, it indicates that the party's internal dispute resolution mechanisms may be failing, potentially leading to a fragmented opposition or a shift in voter loyalty toward other parties.
