₦airaland Forum

Southeast APC Members Oppose Waiver for Tinubu as Party Clears President Without Screening



Fresh cracks have emerged within the ruling party as some members of the Southeast bloc of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have openly opposed the National Working Committee’s (NWC) decision to waive the screening requirement for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the party’s presidential primaries.

The NWC, at its 188th meeting held on May 6, 2026, granted Tinubu automatic clearance to contest, a move that has sparked discontent among certain party stakeholders who argue that the decision undermines internal democracy.

The announcement was conveyed in a statement issued by APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka.

Leaders and members of the APC in the Southeast region have criticized the waiver, describing it as a “dangerous precedent” that could alienate aspirants and deepen perceptions of marginalization within the party.

Some stakeholders insist that while Tinubu’s incumbency is acknowledged, subjecting all aspirants to the same screening process would demonstrate fairness and transparency.

A senior party member from the region, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the decision “signals that the contest is already skewed,” warning that it could discourage participation and weaken party unity ahead of the 2027 elections.



Despite the backlash, the NWC defended its action, citing constitutional provisions that empower it to grant waivers in special circumstances.

“This decision was made pursuant to the powers conferred on the NWC under Article 13.4 (xiii) and (xiv) of the Constitution of APC to organise and supervise the Party’s primaries and, in special circumstances, grant waivers in the best interest of the Party,” the statement read.

The committee emphasized that President Tinubu had already undergone screening ahead of the 2022 primaries and was duly cleared at the time, making a repeat exercise unnecessary.

It further argued that requiring the sitting president to appear before a screening panel would be redundant, given his role as leader of the party.

The NWC also pointed to Tinubu’s endorsements by key party organs, including the Progressive Governors Forum and members of the National Assembly, as justification for the waiver.

However, Southeast APC members argue that endorsements should not replace due process, warning that such decisions could deepen internal divisions if not carefully managed.

In a related development, the APC has extended deadlines for the sale and submission of expression of interest and nomination forms for aspirants, while also adjusting its screening timetable.

While the party says the move is intended to accommodate broader participation, critics view it as a strategic adjustment that still leaves unresolved concerns about fairness.

The controversy surrounding Tinubu’s waiver highlights early tensions within the APC as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.

Observers note that how the party manages internal dissent—particularly from regions like the Southeast—could prove decisive in maintaining cohesion and electoral strength in the coming political cycle.

All these cooked up stories will not work.
Nigerians now know better.

South East APC yet, you couldn't find one name.
This whole long story you yet you couldn't provide one name of the South East APC members.

Exousiang01:
All these cooked up stories will not work.
Nigerians now know better.

South East APC yet, you couldn't find one name.
This whole long story you yet you couldn't provide one name of the South East APC members.

But if it is Obi, it will not be cooked up stories.

Gunayo:
But if it is Obi, it will not be cooked up stories.

Who are the members,what are their names.... a discerning mind can tell facts from bunkum but the problem is majority Nigerians aren't that emotionally intelligent that's why obidients thrive on propaganda.

Lithiumite:
Who are the members,what are their names.... a discerning mind can tell facts from bunkum but the problem is majority Nigerians aren't that emotionally intelligent that's why obidients thrive on propaganda.

You are asking nonsense question. The Op will not answer your nonsense question.

Say No To Tribalism!!
Say Yes To 2027 Southeast Presidency!!