According to a report by The Punch on Monday, April 20, 2026, Uncertainty is reportedly growing within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over its preferred consensus arrangement for selecting candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, as internal disagreements and unresolved negotiations threaten party unity in several states.
Party sources indicate that the APC may resort to direct primary elections in states where efforts to reach consensus among aspirants have failed or become increasingly difficult.
This potential shift is being considered as rising tensions among political blocs within the party continue to affect cohesion at the state level.
According to multiple party insiders, the consensus approach, which was initially favoured as a means of reducing internal conflict, is now facing resistance in some areas where competing interests have made agreement impossible.
As a result, the leadership is reviewing alternative methods to ensure a more transparent and orderly selection process.
Under the new consideration, direct primaries may be introduced in affected states to allow party members to vote directly for their preferred candidates.
This approach, according to sources, is expected to reduce disputes and help manage rivalry among aspirants who have struggled to reach compromise.
The development comes as the deadline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for political parties to submit their list of candidates draws closer.
With time running out, the APC is expected to finalize and release its timetable for the conduct of primaries covering the presidential, governorship, and National Assembly elections.
It was further gathered that the National Chairman of the APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, presented the proposed timetable to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the weekend.
Party insiders disclosed that the President has reportedly given his approval for the plan.
Following this clearance, the party is expected to officially unveil the timetable on Monday, barring any last-minute changes. The announcement will set the stage for the commencement of internal party primaries across the country.
Political observers say the decision on whether to fully adopt consensus or shift toward direct primaries in certain states could significantly shape internal party dynamics and influence the level of unity within the APC as it prepares for the 2027 elections.
