2027: Group Calls For Balanced Representation In Nasarawa APC Tickets

The Integrity Youth Alliance (IYA) has called on the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to review concerns arising from the conduct of the party’s recent primary elections in Nasarawa State, urging greater attention to representation, inclusiveness and internal democracy.

The group said the outcome of the primaries has generated widespread discussions among party members and stakeholders, particularly regarding the need for a more balanced political arrangement that reflects the diversity of the state.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Danjuma Lamido, IYA expressed concern that candidates who emerged for key elective positions under the APC were drawn from the same demographic bloc, a development it said has raised questions about equitable participation within the party.

According to the alliance, political inclusion remains critical to strengthening party unity, sustaining grassroots support and improving electoral performance.

The group cited the disqualification of Mrs. Angela Aya Bako from the Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election primary, noting that the decision generated concerns among her supporters, who viewed her as a credible aspirant capable of contributing meaningfully to the political process.

IYA also referred to the replacement of Nasarawa State Deputy Governor, Emmanuel Agbadu Akabe, with Abubakar Nalaraba for the Nasarawa South Senatorial seat, describing the development as one that has further intensified debates over fairness and representation within the party.

The alliance maintained that the APC leadership should ensure that all sections of the state feel adequately represented in the party’s political structure and candidate selection processes.

It warned that perceptions of exclusion could weaken stakeholder confidence and create avoidable divisions ahead of future elections.

According to the group, the party’s performance in the 2023 presidential election in Nasarawa State, where it lost to the Labour Party despite being the ruling party in the state, demonstrates the importance of broad-based engagement and inclusive political participation.

The alliance therefore urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda and other party leaders to intervene in the interest of fairness, equity and party cohesion.

“The APC was founded on the principles of justice, inclusion and equal opportunity. These values must continue to guide the party’s decision-making processes in order to strengthen unity and enhance its electoral prospects,” the statement said.

IYA stressed that a more inclusive approach to political representation would not only strengthen the APC in Nasarawa State but also deepen confidence among party members and stakeholders across the state.