APC State Primary: Governor Bago Calls on Party Officials to Remain Neutral
From Yahaya zakka, Minna
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago advised All Progressives Congress (APC) officials in the state to stay neutral during the party’s primary elections. This directive was given at an expanded stakeholders meeting held at the Hauwa Wali Multipurpose Hall, Government House, Minna.
He stressed that no candidate should offer money to party officials, as such acts would be considered bribery. While emphasizing the importance of consensus to streamline the process, the governor noted that if consensus cannot be achieved, plans will be made for a direct primary election.
Key stakeholders from all local government areas will work together over the next two weeks to select consensus candidates for Senate, House of Representatives, and State Assembly positions. The governor also urged respect for current zoning arrangements and suggested that areas without zoning consider implementing it.
He assured that all aspirants will be treated fairly and pledged ongoing unity within the APC.
Mu’azu Bawa Rijau, APC Vice Chairman for North Central, reaffirmed the party’s dedication to fairness and dismissed rumors about guaranteed automatic tickets for certain aspirants, clarifying that he has no such authority.
Aminu Musa Bobi, APC chairman for Niger State, explained that the stakeholders’ meeting aimed to gather input on the primary election process and reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s growth.
Muhammad Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, called the event unprecedented, providing a platform for meaningful contributions to the primary election process. He urged aspirants to accept the results and work together for electoral success.
Senator Abubakar Sani Bello and Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi praised Governor Bago’s leadership, calling for unity and fairness regardless of the primary model used.
Other speakers, including the deputy governor and former officials, encouraged party members to stay united and warned supporters against inflammatory behavior, especially on social media.
Representatives from all three senatorial districts echoed calls for justice, fairness, and the development of a comprehensive compensation plan for aspirants.
