Fresh controversy has erupted within Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) following disputed primary elections for the House of Representatives seat in Igabi Local Government Area.
The exercise, meant to determine the party’s candidate for the federal constituency, was marred by allegations of irregularities, poor coordination and violations of internal party procedures, according to party members and observers.
Several stakeholders claimed the primary failed to comply with established APC guidelines and democratic standards, fuelling tensions among supporters of rival aspirants.
Backers of Hussain Muhammad Jalo insisted he emerged as the party’s consensus candidate after the exercise. But the claim was swiftly challenged by fellow aspirant Sani Abdulkadir Dakaci, who rejected the outcome and argued that no credible primary election was conducted.
The conflicting claims have deepened divisions within the party in Kaduna State, with supporters on both sides questioning the legitimacy and transparency of the process.
The controversy adds to growing concerns over the conduct of party primaries in Nigeria, where disputes over internal elections have repeatedly triggered legal battles, defections and prolonged political crises ahead of major polls.
