The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State has taken note of certain expressions of dissatisfaction from a few aspirants regarding the recently announced consensus candidates for the Governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly elections.
A statement signed by Ambassador Moses Kyari, state publicity secretary of the party said the party wishes to set the record straight and provide the necessary context to correct any misinformation.
It said first and foremost, the APC constitution explicitly provides for consensus as a legitimate and preferred option for emergence of candidates. It is designed to foster party unity, reduce acrimony, and save resources. In line with this, the party leadership painstakingly conducted broad-based consultations involving the Party Elders Committee, the State Working Committee (SWC), the State Executive Committee (SEC), and all aspirants.
The party affirm that every aspirant was duly informed and formally invited to participate in the consensus-building process. However, it is a matter of record that some of the individuals now complaining opted, for their own reasons, to decline participation. The party finds it surprising, and indeed disingenuous, that those who voluntarily absented themselves from the process would now turn around to question an outcome they refused to help shape.
The party would like to make this very clear: the consensus decision is merely the party’s first option. It is our earnest attempt to bring all stakeholders together, preserve internal harmony, and prevent the rancour that often accompanies highly competitive political contests. The party has not shut the door on anyone
Neither the Electoral Act nor the APC Constitution imposes consensus as a fait accompli. Where any aspirant disagrees with the consensus arrangement, the party has no alternative but to proceed with the direct primary option. Therefore, any aspirant who disagrees with the consensus arrangement should present him/herself for direct primary elections, in line with constitutional provisions and the guidelines of our great party.
Consequently, we implore all stakeholders, especially aspirants and their supporters, to close ranks, refrain from inflammatory statements, and avoid any utterances capable of disrupting party unity, cohesion, and the collective goal of victory in the general elections.
The party wishes to extend its profound gratitude to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for his exemplary leadership, patience, and commitment to an inclusive process. We also wish to express appreciation to the members of the State Working Committee and all aspirants who participated in the process.
Finally, the APC Gombe State assures all aspirants and members of its steadfast commitment to providing a level-playing field for all, in the overall interest of the party.