Ensure a Level Playing Field For Aspirants, Gongola Elders Urge APC

Elders of the Gongola people in Adamawa State have asked the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure that all aspirants are given a level playing field ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At a press conference in Abuja yesterday, Markus Gundiri, who spoke on their behalf, said the elders would resist any attempt to undermine internal democracy in the selection of the party’s governorship candidate.

The group, representing ethnic nationalities from the former Gongola region, emphasised that whoever emerges as the govermorship candidate must do so through the genuine choice of party members and delegates, not by the dictates of a powerful few.

While reaffirming support for the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the broader objectives of the APC at the national level, the elders made it clear that such support does not extend to what they described as “undemocratic imposition” at the state level.

“We will not accept, tolerate, or allow any form of imposition on our people,” the group said. “Such tendencies are an affront to internal party democracy and a dangerous slide toward political authoritarianism.”

The elders stressed that the emergence of a governorship candidate must be through a transparent, free, and fair primary election, warning that any manipulation of the process could weaken the party’s chances in the general election.

“All aspirants must be given a level playing field. Whoever emerges must reflect the genuine choice of party members and delegates,” the statement added.

They further cautioned that disregarding the collective will of stakeholders in Adamawa State could provoke resistance among the region’s ethnic groups.

“Imposition only breeds resentment, weakens the party, and ultimately guarantees defeat at the general elections,” they warned.

The elders urged APC leadership at both national and state levels to uphold internal democratic processes, emphasising that credibility and fairness are essential to the party’s stability and electoral success.

Reaffirming their commitment to justice, equity, and inclusiveness, the group called on political actors to respect democratic norms as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.