The Fatherland Front for Growth and Development (FFGD) has condemned what it described as “serious irregularities” in the aftermath of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections, accusing influential political actors of imposing candidates and undermining internal democracy.
In a press statement signed by its National Secretary, Dr. AK Peters, the group acknowledged that political parties generally complied with provisions of the amended Electoral Act, particularly regarding consensus and direct primaries. However, it said some outcomes of the APC primaries failed to reflect the wishes of party members.
The organisation alleged that certain aspirants who reportedly secured victories during the primaries were denied recognition in favour of preferred candidates allegedly backed by political godfathers.
Citing the Oyo North Senatorial District as an example, the group claimed that Dr. Gbenga Adegbola won in nine out of 13 local government areas during the exercise but was denied recognition as the winner.
The group also raised concerns over the outcome of the APC senatorial primary in Kwara South, where Dr. Muheebah Dankaka was reportedly declared winner before allegedly losing the party ticket under what the organisation described as “unjust and discriminatory circumstances.”
According to the FFGD, the situation reflects the wider marginalisation of women in Nigerian politics, noting that only five women currently occupy seats in the 109-member Senate.
“At a time when women occupy only five out of the 109 seats in the Nigerian Senate, it is profoundly concerning that competent and qualified women continue to face barriers in participating fully in governance and legislative leadership,” the statement said.
The group called on APC National Chairman, Prof. Yelwatda, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure that justice and fairness prevail in the party’s internal processes.
The organisation further urged the APC National Working Committee to investigate the alleged irregularities and uphold results that genuinely reflect the votes of party members.
It also appealed to aggrieved party members to remain calm and pursue redress through lawful and internal party mechanisms.
“The APC cannot afford to alienate loyal members and grassroots mobilisers at a time when unity is critical ahead of the general elections. Justice and equity must be seen to be done,” the statement added.
