APC Chieftain Vatsa Warns Against Candidate Imposition Ahead of 2027 Primaries

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State, Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, has cautioned the party against imposing candidates ahead of its 2027 general elections primaries, warning that such a move could undermine unity and weaken its electoral chances.
Speaking to journalists in Minna, Vatsa stressed the need for strict adherence to internal democracy, insisting that all aspirants must be allowed to freely contest party primaries without favoritism or predetermined outcomes.
He warned that granting automatic tickets or adopting consensus arrangements could trigger internal divisions and anti-party activities, which he said would be detrimental to the party’s performance at the polls.
According to him, “internal democracy must prevail” if the APC hopes to remain united and competitive, especially with opposition parties closely watching for signs of disunity.
Vatsa further argued that only an open and credible primary process would produce popular candidates capable of easing the burden of campaigns during the general elections.
He cautioned that any attempt to sideline aspirants could “spell disaster” for the party, stressing that fairness remains key to maintaining loyalty and grassroots support.
The former Niger State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism also expressed concern over rising insecurity and economic hardship, saying these challenges could negatively affect the ruling party’s public image ahead of 2027.
He warned that the current security situation, if not urgently addressed, risks shaping voter sentiment, drawing parallels with the political climate ahead of the 2015 elections.
Vatsa, however, maintained that responsibility for Nigeria’s challenges should not rest solely on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but insisted that governance outcomes would ultimately influence the party’s electoral fortunes.
He urged party leaders to prioritize unity, transparency, and fairness as the APC prepares for its crucial internal primaries.