Uncertainty appears to be growing within the ruling All Progressives Congress over its preferred consensus approach ahead of the 2027 elections, as internal sources suggest the party may resort to direct primaries in states where agreements cannot be reached.
According to findings by The PUNCH, the party could abandon the consensus option in certain states due to intensifying rivalries and stalled negotiations, which are increasingly threatening unity within its ranks. To manage tensions among competing factions, the APC is reportedly weighing the option of direct primaries in affected state chapters.
This development comes as the deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission for the submission of candidates’ lists draws closer. In preparation, and barring any last-minute adjustments, the party is expected to soon release its timetable for primaries covering aspirants for the National Assembly, governorship, and presidential elections.
In Borno State, the political contest remains largely undeclared, although key actors are believed to be making strategic moves behind the scenes. Governor Babagana Zulum is said to have shown little interest in openly backing a successor, while Vice President Kashim Shettima and former governor Ali Modu Sheriff are expected to play significant roles in shaping the outcome.
The political observers note that, unlike in some other states, the chances of producing a consensus candidate in Borno appear slim, largely due to the number of influential stakeholders involved.
In contrast, figures such as Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, who represents Borno Central, and the Minister of Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari, are widely expected to join the race and are considered to have stronger political connections.
