The recently concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Delta State have sparked widespread controversy, raising serious concerns about the state of internal democracy within political parties in Nigeria.
What should have been a transparent and credible democratic exercise has instead left many party members, political observers and stakeholders disappointed, with allegations of manipulation, imposition and exclusion dominating public discourse.
In recent weeks, principles expected to guarantee free, fair and participatory primaries were allegedly undermined by influential political actors accused of hijacking the process to serve narrow personal and political interests. The adoption of “consensus” and “direct primaries,” mechanisms ordinarily designed to strengthen unity and broaden participation, was reportedly transformed into tools for political control and candidate imposition.
Even before the State House of Assembly primaries commenced, alleged lists of “preferred candidates” had circulated widely across political circles in Delta State. Although party loyalists initially dismissed the reports as speculation, the eventual emergence of many names reportedly contained on those lists as candidates fueled suspicions that outcomes may have been predetermined.
A similar pattern was allegedly witnessed during the Senatorial and House of Representatives primaries, where some aspirants claimed they were denied a fair opportunity to contest. Critics alleged that voting processes were manipulated in favour of candidates perceived to enjoy the backing of entrenched political interests.
The developments have triggered questions over the transparency and credibility of the exercises. Many party members reportedly complained of irregularities, intimidation and restricted access to voting venues, while concerns were also raised over how official figures and results were determined.
More troubling were allegations that non-party members, including civil servants and teachers, were mobilised to participate in the primaries through inducements such as cash and food items to boost support for preferred candidates. If proven true, such actions would represent a serious abuse of democratic principles.
Observers argue that the situation reflects a growing culture of plutocracy within the political system, where powerful political elites allegedly manipulate party structures to preserve and expand their influence.
Analysts warn that the suppression of internal democracy could erode public confidence not only in political parties but also in the broader electoral system. Political parties, they argue, are expected to promote fairness, inclusion and healthy competition rather than function as exclusive platforms controlled by a select few.
Another major concern arising from the APC primaries is the reported marginalisation of long-standing party loyalists following the emergence of new power blocs and defectors who allegedly took control of party structures. Several foundational members now reportedly feel sidelined and politically displaced within the party they helped build.
While acknowledging that every election naturally produces winners and losers, many stakeholders insist that fairness, justice and equity must remain central to any democratic process. They warn that the prevailing “winner-takes-all” approach could deepen internal divisions, resentment and rebellion within the party.
Political observers also fear that unresolved grievances from the primaries could weaken the APC’s chances in Delta North ahead of the 2027 general elections. History has repeatedly shown that internal party crises often translate into electoral setbacks, especially when aggrieved members choose to work against the party or defect to alternative political platforms.
Under the provisions of the Electoral Act, dissatisfied aspirants and party members retain the constitutional right to seek political opportunities elsewhere if they believe they were unfairly treated.
Amid the growing discontent, calls have intensified in parts of Delta North for former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei, to contest the Delta North Senatorial seat. Supporters argue that his political influence and grassroots appeal transcend party lines.
Ultimately, political analysts maintain that the true test of democracy lies not merely in conducting elections, but in ensuring that electoral processes are transparent, credible and reflective of the genuine will of the people.
They warn that any political party that consistently suppresses internal democracy risks weakening itself from within.
Austin Edemodu, PhD
An Abuja-based journalist and Public Affairs Commentator.
