Internal Tensions Rise in Zamfara APC Over Upcoming Federal Constituency Primary

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State is facing internal friction as preparations begin for a court-ordered fresh primary election for the Kaura Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency. The selection process has become the subject of a formal petition, highlighting deep-seated disagreements regarding the party’s administrative conduct.

Allegations of Procedural Irregularity

Hassan Dangaladima, an aspirant seeking the party’s ticket, has formally petitioned the APC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to intervene in the upcoming primary. According to a report by Daily Post Nigeria, the petition centers on the actions of the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.

Dangaladima claims that Yilwatda acted unilaterally by constituting the committee responsible for overseeing the rescheduled primary election. The petitioner asserts that the National Working Committee (NWC), which is the body typically tasked with such decisions, was not consulted or convened to deliberate on the committee’s formation. Dangaladima argues that this lack of oversight undermines the legitimacy of the process.

Dispute Over Candidate Eligibility

Beyond the procedural complaints, the petition raises questions regarding the eligibility of a rival candidate. Dangaladima has alleged that Honourable Aminu Sani Jaji, his primary opponent for the constituency ticket, is not a card-carrying member of the APC. This claim, if substantiated, would have significant implications for the candidate’s right to participate in the party’s internal selection process.

In his petition, Dangaladima has requested that the NEC halt the current primary arrangements and appoint a new committee to manage the exercise, citing a need for transparency and adherence to party protocols.

Party Leadership Responds

The APC leadership has formally rejected the accusations brought forward by the aspirant. Abimbola Tooki, the media aide to the National Chairman, dismissed the allegations as entirely baseless. According to the party’s response reported by Daily Post Nigeria, the committee tasked with conducting the primary was constituted in accordance with proper party procedures, directly contradicting the claims made by Dangaladima.

Context of Zamfara Political Dynamics

The controversy arises within a complex political landscape in Zamfara State. The state has recently seen significant shifts in its political alignment, notably the defection of Governor Dauda Lawal to the APC. Additionally, the state remains a key area of political interest, as it is the home of Abdulaziz Yari, who served as the Director-General of President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign.

As of now, the party has not announced any changes to the primary schedule despite the petition. The situation remains fluid, with the internal dispute serving as a test of the party’s ability to manage local primary processes amid high-stakes political maneuvering.

Conclusion

The dispute over the Kaura Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency primary highlights the challenges the APC faces in maintaining internal cohesion during election cycles. While the party leadership maintains that all actions taken were appropriate, the formal challenge from an aspirant underscores the ongoing tension between party members and national administrators. Whether the NEC will take further action to address these concerns remains to be seen.

<

p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Daily Post Nigeria

Tags: APC · Elections · news · Nigerian Politics · Political Crisis · ViralBrief · Zamfara