A number of All Progressives Congress (APC) members of the House of Representatives who lost their return tickets in the just‑concluded primaries are fighting back through legal challenges and internal party pressure. At least 26 incumbent lawmakers are at the centre of the brewing crisis, accusing party leaders and primary election officials of manipulation, imposition and disenfranchisement.
Some aggrieved Reps have petitioned the APC national leadership and primary appeals panels, demanding the cancellation or review of results in their constituencies. They allege irregularities such as last‑minute changes to delegates’ lists, vote‑buying, intimidation of voters and the imposition of consensus candidates without proper consultation.
Others are turning to the courts, filing suits to challenge the conduct of primaries or to seek recognition as the authentic candidates. However, analysts note that the amended Electoral Act now prevents aspirants who lost party primaries from defecting to another party to contest the same election cycle, limiting their options to internal redress.
Grassroots protests have also erupted in some areas, with party members staging demonstrations at APC secretariats over alleged disenfranchisement and imposition. Videos from Mushin in Lagos and Ibadan in Oyo State show angry supporters confronting officials and calling for fresh primaries.
Party insiders warn that mishandling the fallout could deepen internal divisions and hurt the APC’s chances in the 2027 general elections, especially in marginal constituencies. They are urging the leadership to balance loyalty to new flagbearers with genuine reconciliation efforts towards displaced incumbents, many of whom still command strong local support and control valuable political structures.
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