Delta APC Consensus Primaries and Party Unity

Explore the Delta APC Consensus Primaries for the 2027 elections and how they aim to unite the party amidst internal disputes.

The Delta State branch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has chosen consensus as its method for selecting candidates for the 2027 general elections. Party leaders say this approach will bring unity, but some critics warn it could cause more division if everyone is not included.

However, the Delta APC has struggled with ongoing internal disputes, which have hurt its chances against the dominant Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In the past, disagreements over primaries led to separate congresses and court cases, splitting the party’s support. Now, party leaders are promoting consensus to prevent more conflict and show unity.

During a meeting in Asaba, the State Working Committee said it would use consensus for the primaries, in line with the APC constitution and the Electoral Act. Leaders pointed to the recent local government congresses, where executives were chosen peacefully, as proof that consensus can work.

“Consensus is about dialogue and collective agreement. We cannot afford divisions if we want to challenge PDP’s dominance in Delta,” said a senior APC leader.

Moreover, in Ughelli North Constituency I, Hon. Matthew Omonade was chosen by everyone as the consensus candidate for a second term. So, he was endorsed after talks led by APC founding leader Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, who urged members to back experienced representatives.

Nevertheless, not all hopefuls agree with the plan. Some say that consensus could leave out strong candidates and feel forced. They believe that direct primaries should remain an option if no one can agree, as national guidelines suggest.

“Consensus must be genuine, not forced. If aspirants are excluded, it will only breed resentment and weaken the party,” one aspirant cautioned.

Candidate Options: Pros and Cons

Option	Pros	Cons
Consensus	Promotes unity, saves resources, reduces conflict.	Risk of imposition, less transparent, may alienate aspirants.
Direct Primaries	Democratic, inclusive, tests grassroots support.	Costly, time-consuming, potential for factional disputes.

Screening of candidates and the final primaries will take place in May 2026, with the governorship primaries on May 21. Analysts say that how well the APC balances consensus and inclusion will affect its chances against the PDP, which is still strong in Delta politics.

For many in the party, the consensus primaries are both a chance and a challenge. The question remains: can the APC move past its divisions and put up a strong fight in 2027?