By Sochima Agbo 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is reconsidering its consensus strategy for the 2027 general elections amid growing internal tensions and unresolved negotiations in several states.

Sources within the ruling party indicate that direct primaries may be adopted in states where stakeholders fail to reach agreement, as rivalries continue to threaten unity within local chapters.

The shift in strategy comes as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deadline for submission of candidates approaches. The party is expected to release its timetable for primaries covering governorship, National Assembly and presidential elections.

Party insiders confirmed that the National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, has briefed President Bola Tinubu on the proposed schedule, which has reportedly received approval and may be announced imminently.

Although consensus arrangements have been finalised in Lagos, Oyo and Ogun states, negotiations remain inconclusive in others, including Nasarawa, Kwara, Adamawa, Yobe and Bauchi. Disagreements are particularly pronounced in states with outgoing governors seeking to influence succession.

A senior party figure noted that while governors are being given significant input in choosing their successors, direct primaries will be used where consensus cannot be achieved.

“Talks are ongoing, but consensus must be voluntary. Where it breaks down, direct primaries offer a more open and acceptable process,” the source said.

Concerns are also mounting that forcing consensus candidates could spark defections or internal resistance, making direct primaries a more viable option in contentious states.

In Bauchi, uncertainty persists amid speculation about Governor Bala Mohammed’s political future, despite his public denial of defection rumours. Multiple influential figures are reportedly positioning for the governorship race, complicating consensus efforts.

Kwara State faces similar challenges, with strong political blocs and competing ambitions making agreement difficult. Stakeholders warn that any attempt to impose a candidate could trigger backlash.

In Adamawa, alleged moves to enforce a consensus candidate have reportedly met strong resistance, raising fears of a major internal crisis.

Meanwhile, consultations continue in Nasarawa, where party leaders are still weighing options amid debates over zoning and the mode of primaries. Some aspirants have openly endorsed direct primaries, citing transparency.

Gombe appears to be making progress toward consensus, with indications that Governor Muhammadu Yahaya is coordinating efforts among stakeholders.

In Yobe and Borno, political alignments and behind-the-scenes negotiations are ongoing, with influential actors shaping the succession process.

While the APC maintains that consensus remains its preferred approach, party leaders acknowledge that direct primaries may be necessary in states where agreements prove impossible.

With the 2027 elections drawing closer, the party’s ability to manage internal differences and adopt a workable selection process will be critical to its overall electoral prospects.