Kogi Reps Aspirant Calls For Direct Primaries In APC

A House of Representatives aspirant for Idah, Ibaji, Igalamela-Odolu and Ofu Federal Constituency in Kogi State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Onuche Victor Alor, has called on the party to adopt direct primaries as the mode for selecting its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Alor made the appeal in an interview with LEADERSHIP Friday in Abuja yesterday, stressing that as the 2027 elections approach, it is important for the party to embrace a transparent and inclusive process that reflects the will of its members.

He noted that while both direct primaries and consensus arrangements are recognised under the Electoral Act, the APC should set the pace by adopting a system that allows broader participation, especially at the grassroots level.

According to him, adopting direct primaries would enhance transparency and give party members a stronger sense of belonging in the candidate selection process, while also improving the likelihood of presenting candidates capable of winning elections.

“I am appealing to our party to take the option of direct primaries rather than consensus. While consensus is recognised, it may not always reflect the true popularity of aspirants among party members,” he said.

The aspirant maintained that he remains actively engaged with stakeholders in his constituency in Kogi State, stressing that the process of candidate emergence should reflect the will of party members rather than selections perceived as imposed.

He expressed concern that reliance on consensus arrangements without adequate consultation could limit the opportunity for a fair assessment of aspirants’ acceptance among party faithful.

Also speaking at Saturday’s national convention of the APC, Alor urged party leaders and members to approach the gathering with a sense of purpose, describing it as a critical moment for reflection and strategic planning ahead of the 2027 elections.

He said the convention should go beyond routine political activities and serve as a platform for the party to reaffirm its principles and strengthen its internal cohesion in preparation for future electoral engagements.

“Our national convention should provide an opportunity for the party to engage meaningfully with its members and position itself for future challenges. A political party must demonstrate its capacity to organise itself effectively if it is to lead the nation,” he stated.

Alor further emphasised the need for the convention to convey a clear message of readiness and renewal, noting that the party must continue to build confidence among its members and the broader electorate.

He also called on constituents in Idah, Ibaji, Igalamela-Odolu and Ofu Federal Constituency to support the APC, while expressing optimism about the party’s prospects in the 2027 general elections.