The All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended its zoning arrangement, emphasizing that the process is both orderly and compliant with party regulations, ahead of its National Convention scheduled for 2026. The party downplayed grievances from certain aspirants regarding the pre-allocation of nomination forms.
In a press conference held in Abuja on Thursday, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, attributed some aspirants' issues with acquiring nomination forms to the party's commitment to federal character principles.
Idris stated that party positions had already been allocated to various geopolitical zones and cautioned that aspirants attempting to contest from outside their designated areas may be attempting to create confusion.
The minister's remarks came in response to complaints from aspirants such as Dagogo Fubara, who is vying for the South-south zonal vice chairmanship but alleged he was denied nomination forms despite paying a ₦5.1 million fee.
Another aspirant, Oyiborume Yovwe, contended that the national secretary position had been pre-allocated, although he followed the nomination procedures.
Idris reiterated that zoning has been established in the APC, and only those from identified regions are eligible to run for specific positions. He remarked, "In line with federal character, all offices are zoned. If you are purchasing a form allocated to your zone, it will be available to you. However, if a position is designated for A, and you come from Z trying to buy a form, we suspect your intent may be to create confusion."
The APC will not condone actions that threaten to undermine its internal structure, according to the minister, who confirmed that the party has yet to receive any formal legal complaints about the nomination process.
Over 8,000 Delegates to Attend Convention
Idris also announced that about 8,453 delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory are anticipated to attend the convention. He stated that this event will provide a platform for policy discussions, leadership elections, and the formal transition to new party executives.
He characterized the convention's theme, “Unity in progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” as emblematic of the party's growth and its alignment with President Bola Tinubu's broader governance vision. "The APC has consistently aimed to unify various political factions for national advancement, democratic ideals, and inclusivity in governance," he said.
Idris noted, "The forthcoming National Convention marks a significant milestone in our ongoing journey, epitomizing our values and the renewal of our leadership. It’s a chance to showcase the accomplishments under President Bola Tinubu and how our guiding vision translates into real benefits for Nigerians."
He further assured the public that all logistical arrangements are in place for a seamless, credible exercise at Eagle Square, Abuja. He emphasized that the event will reflect the APC's organizational discipline and democratic integrity.
25 Sub-Committees Formed for Convention
The Chairman of the Convention Coordinating Committee, Aminu Masari, also addressed attendees, revealing the establishment of 25 sub-committees tasked with overseeing different elements of the convention. Masari expressed confidence in the preparation, declaring that the APC is ready to host one of the best conventions in Nigeria's political history.
"As leaders, we must set the bar for a more resilient and trustworthy democratic framework," he stated, adding that he is certain the convention's outcomes will strengthen the party's pledge to bolster democracy in Nigeria.
Dignitaries at the conference included the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; Senate Spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu; and House of Representatives Spokesperson Akin Rotimi, along with Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, and Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
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As part of the preparations for the convention, the party conducted a screening exercise for aspirants on Tuesday. The convention, set for March 27 and 28, 2026, at Eagle Square, Abuja, will bring together thousands of delegates for leadership elections, policy discussions, and the induction of a new National Working Committee (NWC). This event is crucial for reinforcing the APC's internal structure and aligning with the Tinubu administration's policy direction while addressing zoning and competition concerns.
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