POST-PRIMARY ROW: INEC, APC MAY CLASH OVER OFFICIAL SENATE LIST

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) may be headed for a disagreement over the party’s official Senate candidate list following post-primary developments.

The dispute centres on the submission and recognition of candidates emerging from the party’s primary elections, with questions being raised over the authenticity and validity of the official nomination list.

According to political observers, the development could lead to legal and administrative challenges if disagreements over candidate submissions are not resolved promptly.

INEC has maintained that all political parties must comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act and established guidelines governing the nomination and submission of candidates.

The APC is expected to defend its position while working to ensure that its officially recognised candidates are accepted for the forthcoming electoral process.

Legal experts note that any disagreement between the electoral commission and a political party over candidate nominations may ultimately be determined through constitutional and judicial processes.

Analysts believe the outcome of the dispute could influence the party’s preparations and strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Stakeholders have urged both INEC and the APC to adhere strictly to legal procedures and prioritise transparency throughout the nomination process.

The development underscores the importance of internal party cohesion and compliance with electoral regulations in safeguarding the credibility of Nigeria’s democratic process.

Attention will remain on subsequent actions by both the electoral commission and the ruling party as the candidate nomination process continues.