A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State, Jonathan Vatsa, has cautioned the party leadership against imposing candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Vatsa warned that such action could undermine the party’s chances at the polls.
Speaking to journalists in Minna on Friday, Vatsa stressed the need for internal democracy to prevail, insisting that all aspirants must be given a fair and level playing field during the primaries.
He warned that granting automatic tickets or adopting consensus arrangements without broad acceptance could divide the party and weaken its electoral strength.
The former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism in Niger State maintained that only a transparent and open primary process would ensure unity within the party.
According to him, “Imposing unpopular candidates could trigger anti-party activities and create setbacks for the ruling party during the general elections.”
Vatsa also cautioned that the opposition remains a strong force capable of capitalising on any internal crisis within the APC.
He noted that allowing a widely accepted candidate to emerge would reduce the burden of campaigning, while undemocratic processes could have serious consequences for the party.
On the security situation in the country, he described the rising wave of banditry as a negative reflection on the government while drawing parallels with events leading up to the 2015 elections,
Vatsa warned that worsening insecurity and economic hardship could affect public perception of the administration, adding that much of the blame is being directed at President Bola Tinubu.
