The Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has urged the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to carefully manage the outcome of its forthcoming primaries to prevent internal crises and potential fragmentation within the party.
Bamidele issued the warning during a meeting with key stakeholders in the Ekiti Central Senatorial District held in Ado-Ekiti, where he stressed the importance of unity and discipline among party members before, during, and after the primary elections.
He cautioned against acts of disloyalty and betrayal, noting that such developments could create openings for opposition parties to attract disgruntled APC members. He specifically referenced the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as an emerging political force actively seeking to expand its national membership base.
According to him, internal dissatisfaction within the APC could be exploited by rival parties looking to strengthen their ranks. He warned that opposition groups are closely monitoring the party for signs of division that could be leveraged for political gain.
Bamidele emphasised the need for party members to remain committed and steadfast, urging the leadership to adopt effective strategies in managing internal affairs to avoid any form of implosion.
Addressing concerns about the primary election process, the Senate Leader clarified that all aspirants would participate in the primaries, irrespective of whether they emerge through consensus arrangements or direct contests.
He explained that Nigeria’s electoral framework recognises two modes of candidate selection—consensus and direct primaries—but noted that even candidates who secure consensus endorsements must still undergo formal affirmation by party members.
Bamidele added that the process requires validation across all wards, stressing that consensus candidates must still be subjected to a form of ratification unless there is unanimous agreement among stakeholders.
He further advised aspirants, particularly those vying for seats in the House of Representatives within the district, to remain loyal to the party even if they fail to secure the party’s ticket.
The Senate Leader urged those who may not emerge victorious to avoid interpreting the outcome as personal failure, noting that political contests often involve multiple aspirants competing for a single position.
He maintained that setbacks in the primaries should be seen as part of the political process, adding that factors such as timing and broader political considerations often influence outcomes.
Bamidele concluded by encouraging party members to remain active and relevant within the APC, expressing optimism that opportunities would arise for aspirants in the future if they remain committed to the party’s ideals.
