Thirty-three chairmanship and 351 councillorship candidates of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) have filed a lawsuit against their political party in a Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, over alleged plans to conduct a fresh primary election ahead of the upcoming local government polls. The candidates argue that such a move would invalidate their nomination and undermine their right to contest under the party’s banner. The legal action was filed just weeks before the scheduled elections, raising concerns about internal party dynamics and electoral fairness.
The suit, which seeks an injunction to restrain the APM from holding any new primary, highlights growing tensions within the party. The candidates claim they were duly nominated through a previous primary process and have already been registered with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). They assert that any attempt by the party leadership to replace them through a new primary would be unlawful and contrary to electoral guidelines. Their legal team insists that the party’s actions may constitute an abuse of power and could lead to disenfranchisement of legitimate aspirants.
The plaintiffs are represented by a team of lawyers who argue that the APM’s proposed fresh primary lacks transparency and procedural fairness. They also point out that the timing of the proposed exercise—so close to the election date—could disrupt the electoral process and create confusion among voters. According to the candidates, they have invested significant time, resources, and public trust in their campaigns and deserve the opportunity to contest fairly.
The case has drawn attention from political observers and civil society groups, who see it as a test of democratic principles within Nigeria’s political parties. Some analysts believe the outcome could set a precedent for how intra-party disputes are handled in future elections. The court is expected to hear arguments soon, with both sides likely to present evidence on the legitimacy of the original primaries and the legality of the proposed re-nomination.
Meanwhile, the APM leadership has not yet issued an official statement on the matter. However, sources within the party suggest that internal disagreements over candidate selection may have prompted the leadership to consider a revote. Critics argue this could weaken public confidence in the party’s credibility and governance structure.
As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes remain on the Federal High Court in Ibadan, where the decision could significantly influence the course of the upcoming local government elections in Oyo State. The case underscores the importance of clear rules and accountability in Nigeria’s political processes, especially at the grassroots level. With millions of voters anticipating fair and transparent elections, the resolution of this dispute will be closely watched across the country.
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