APC PRIMARY WARFARE: Governors, Ex Senators Humiliated As New Power Bloc Takes Over Ahead Of 2027NassNews

APC PRIMARY WARFARE: Governors, Ex Senators Humiliated As New Power Bloc Takes Over Ahead Of 2027

NassNews

The ruling All Progressives Congress was thrown into intense political turbulence on Monday after its nationwide senatorial primaries produced shocking upsets, dramatic withdrawals, disputed victories and powerful backroom deals that have now reshaped the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

Several longtime political heavyweights lost control of their structures as new alliances backed by governors and party leaders dominated the primaries across multiple states.

In Imo State, Governor Hope Uzodimma delivered one of the biggest political blows of the exercise after overwhelmingly defeating former governor Rochas Okorocha in the Imo West senatorial race. The result sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape and signaled a major shift in APC power dynamics.

Former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello also made a dramatic return to frontline politics after clinching the APC ticket for Kogi Central with a massive victory margin, strengthening speculation about his growing influence within the party.

In Delta, the primaries turned into a brutal political showdown as former governor Ifeanyi Okowa defeated Senator Ned Nwoko, while Senator Ede Dafinone crushed ex Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo Agege in a contest that later triggered conflicting victory claims.

The exercise exposed deep cracks within the APC as protests, allegations of manipulation and confusion erupted in several states including Edo, Rivers, Kwara and Ogun.

In Edo South, rival factions announced different winners, throwing the process into controversy. In Rivers State, Senator Ipalibo Banigo Harry protested her disqualification and accused the party of sidelining experienced female politicians despite repeated promises of inclusion.

Ogun politics was equally tense as former governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun stayed away from the primaries amid reports of internal disagreements and imposed consensus arrangements.

Despite the controversies, several top APC figures cruised to victory through affirmation and consensus deals brokered by party power brokers. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Ali Ndume, Adams Oshiomhole and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin all secured their tickets without fierce contests.

The primaries also sparked nationwide outrage after dozens of aspirants were disqualified by the APC screening committee, with many accusing the party leadership of favouritism and political suppression.

From peaceful affirmations to chaotic confrontations, Monday’s exercise has now exposed the fierce internal battle shaping the APC’s future as the road to 2027 officially gathers momentum.