APC Specifies Zoning Guidelines, Confirms 8,453 Delegates in Abuja for Convention

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Convention Central Working Committee and former Governor of Katsina State, Bello Masari, has elaborated on the zoning rules concerning the upcoming election for the party's National Working Committee (NWC).

Masari addressed concerns regarding claims by some candidates who alleged they were barred from participating despite having purchased nomination forms for NWC roles.

He stated, "As I have previously mentioned, APC is a responsible party. All positions are allocated according to federal character principles. When you come to buy a form, you must select the position designated for your zone."

Moreover, he emphasized, "If a position is designated for ‘A’ and you are from ‘Z’ but attempt to purchase a form for ‘A,’ we question your motives and suspect you may aim to create confusion. In our current situation, the party's organizational structure is aligned with zonal distribution, and NWC members are assigned based on these zones."

Masari further asserted, "If you are pursuing a position not assigned to your zone, claiming it as a democratic process seems contradictory. We are wary of individuals potentially sent to disrupt our party, which we will not permit. I believe that Nigerians share these sentiments."

As for threats of legal action from those affected, Masari remarked, "We are not aware of anyone initiating legal proceedings against us; we have not been officially notified. We maintain our responsibility as a political party. If we do receive a notice, we will respond appropriately. You cannot claim something you do not have; you can only hold onto what is rightfully yours."

In related news, approximately 8,453 delegates have arrived in Abuja ahead of the 8th National Convention of the APC, which is set to commence today. This information was revealed by the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee for the convention, Mohammed Idris, during a press briefing prior to the event.

Idris confirmed that all delegates have arrived safely and that the party is well-prepared for the convention proceedings. He assured that the event would be conducted transparently and called upon media personnel covering the occasion to report responsibly and patriotically.

Additionally, access roads to the Eagle Square, the convention venue, have been closed to traffic in light of the event.