ABUJA, NIGERIA — The All Progressives Congress (APC) screening exercise for the 2027 general elections saw a major point of interest as Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara was notably absent from the initial proceedings, even as 14 other governors and the President’s lone challenger were assessed.
The screening, chaired by APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, took place over the weekend following the closure of form sales on May 6.
The Fubara Mystery
Governor Fubara’s absence on Friday and Saturday drew significant attention due to his ongoing political friction with his predecessor and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. Fubara, who reportedly obtained his nomination forms via proxy despite alleged opposition from the Wike camp, did not appear before the committee during the scheduled window for sitting governors.
However, the Committee Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, cautioned against singling out the Rivers Governor. He explained that three governors in total had not yet appeared due to official state engagements and were being excused to attend at a later time.
Tinubu’s Challenger Stands Firm
In a rare move within the ruling party, Stanley Osifo, the sole aspirant contesting the presidential ticket against President Bola Tinubu, successfully underwent the screening process.
Osifo described the session as “rigorous but fair” and confirmed he was questioned specifically about his decision to challenge the incumbent. Despite the party leadership’s public leanings toward the President, Osifo told journalists he has no intention of stepping down. “Decisions on the primary method rest with the party, but I am committed to this race,” he asserted.
Governors on the Move
A long list of “Progressive” governors seeking re-election or senatorial seats successfully cleared the hurdle. Those screened include:
- Northern Block: Abba Yusuf (Kano), Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Nasir Idris (Kebbi), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Umar Bago (Niger), Ahmed Aliyu (Sokoto), and Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia (Benue).
- Southern Block: Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Bassey Otu (Cross River), and Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta).
- Senatorial Aspirants: Governors Mai Mala Buni (Yobe) and Hope Uzodinma (Imo) were screened for their respective senatorial bids.
Bauchi and Kwara Tensions
Former Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, seeking the Bauchi governorship, warned after his screening that a “consensus” arrangement is unlikely. He pointed to a sudden “deluge” of aspirants picking up forms at the last minute and urged the APC to sift through the crowd for “genuinely committed” candidates to avoid fraudulent primary outcomes.
What’s Next?
The APC has adopted a phased primary schedule to meet INEC’s January 2027 election timeline:
- House of Reps: May 15
- Senate: May 18
- Governorship: May 21
- Presidential Primary: May 23
Official results of the screening exercise are expected to be released shortly as the party prepares for its House of Representatives primaries this Wednesday.
