BREAKING: 2027: Gov Fintiri Forcefully Rejects Moves By Nuhu Ribadu To Impose Consensus Candidate In Adamawa

Fresh concerns are emerging within the ruling All Progressives Congress over its strategy for selecting candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, with indications that the party may increasingly adopt direct primaries where consensus proves unworkable.

Investigations by The PUNCH reveal that deepening internal rivalries and failed negotiations in several states are putting pressure on the party’s preferred consensus model. As tensions rise among competing factions, party leaders are said to be considering direct primaries as a fallback option to prevent further divisions at the state level.

The situation is unfolding as the submission deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission approaches. In anticipation, the APC is expected to announce its schedule for primary elections, which will determine candidates for the National Assembly, governorship, and presidential contests, unless there is a last-minute shift in plans.

In Adamawa State, attempts to enforce a preferred candidate have reportedly sparked strong opposition, heightening fears of a looming crisis within the party. The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, is said to have encountered resistance over alleged efforts to influence the emergence of a candidate.

Meanwhile, according to a chieftain of the ruling party in the state who spoke on condition of anonymity, the state governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, has openly and ‘forcefully’ rejected any such moves, cautioning against the dangers of imposing candidates. Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting, he warned, “Imposition of a candidate on members of a political party is worse than a military coup. It destroys the very tenets of democracy, discourages genuine participation and creates resentment that can damage the party beyond repair.”

The party chieftain further disclosed that attempts to broker a consensus arrangement in the state have so far failed to yield results. One source expressed concern over tactics allegedly being considered behind closed doors, including pressuring aspirants to withdraw or threatening disqualification, warning that such measures could trigger significant backlash.

A similar challenge is reportedly playing out in Kwara State, where the presence of multiple interest groups and competing ambitions has made the prospect of reaching a consensus particularly difficult.