The Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially adopted consensus candidates for all elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections, eliminating any possibility of internal contests across constituencies in the state. Governor Francis Nwifuru announced the decision following a stakeholders’ consultative meeting held in Abakaliki, emphasizing that the outcome was the result of broad-based engagement and collective agreement within the party. The move marks a significant shift in party dynamics, as it ensures unity and avoids the usual pre-election rivalries that often plague Nigerian political parties.
Governor Nwifuru addressed journalists at the Government House in Ochudo Centenary City, stating that the meeting was convened to discuss critical party matters and lay a unified foundation for the upcoming elections. He highlighted that the process was inclusive, involving party leaders, members, and key stakeholders in shaping the party’s electoral strategy. “As the leader of the party, we convened a meeting of stakeholders and deliberated on issues concerning our party,” Nwifuru said, underscoring that the consensus was reached through mutual respect and dialogue.
Former Senate President and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, who briefed journalists after the meeting, explained that the consensus process began about a week earlier when the governor initiated consultations across the state. These consultations culminated in a broader stakeholders’ session where all outstanding issues were resolved, leading to a unanimous agreement on candidates for every elective office. “For the first time in the history of the state, stakeholders, electorates and party members were fully involved in selecting those who will fly the party’s flag,” Senator Anyim stated.
He described the meeting as highly productive, with participants endorsing the consensus approach as the most effective way to ensure party cohesion and strengthen governance. According to Anyim, the decision means no constituency in Ebonyi State will experience internal party contests for the APC ticket. “The implication is that there is no constituency that is going to be contested because we have reached consensus on all elective offices,” he affirmed.
Senator Anyim praised Governor Nwifuru’s consultative leadership style, crediting it for the successful outcome. He expressed confidence that the inclusive process would significantly boost the party’s chances in the 2027 elections, noting that public involvement in candidate selection would lead to greater grassroots mobilization. “Because the people are part of the process, the election will be easier for us to win,” he added, assuring that party members across the state would actively support the consensus candidates.
The stakeholders’ meeting, which began at 4:00 p.m., concluded late in the evening after thorough deliberations on party strategy and candidate selection. The names of the consensus candidates for various positions are expected to be formally released in a statement by the party. This unprecedented level of unity within the APC in Ebonyi State sets a precedent for other parties and may influence the broader political landscape in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
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