'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a significant development ahead of the Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally adopted the indirect primary mode for selecting its candidate. This decision was announced by the party’s National Secretary, Surajudeen Ajibola Bashiru, during a press briefing following the NWC meeting held at the party’s national headquarters.
The NWC clarified that earlier advertisements suggesting the adoption of a direct primary mode were misleading, as no formal resolution had been made prior to the meeting. Bashiru emphasized that the decision to opt for an indirect primary was carefully considered to ensure a more inclusive and streamlined process.
“At the NWC today, it was formally decided that the mode of emergence of the candidate for the Anambra governorship election will be through indirect primary,” Bashiru stated. “This decision was made to carry along all stakeholders and ensure a transparent process.”
To further solidify this decision, the APC has scheduled a stakeholders’ meeting for 1 PM next Tuesday at the party’s national headquarters. The meeting will include members of the Anambra State Working Committee, the state caucus, and all aspirants vying for the party’s ticket. The aim is to brief stakeholders on the decision and address any concerns ahead of the primary election.
Bashiru also revealed that the party would communicate its decision to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in line with electoral guidelines. Additionally, supplementary advertisements and public sensitization campaigns will be launched to inform party members and the general public about the mode of primary and the adjusted timetable.
The Anambra governorship election is a critical contest for the APC, which is seeking to strengthen its foothold in the Southeast region. The adoption of an indirect primary mode is seen as a strategic move to foster unity within the party and ensure that all stakeholders are carried along in the decision-making process.
The NWC’s decision comes amid ongoing efforts by the party to review its constitution and improve inclusivity in its operations. Bashiru noted that the party is committed to ensuring that its internal processes are transparent and credible, particularly as it prepares for future elections.
“Our commitment is to have a register with integrity before the next election, and the ongoing e-registration of party members is a step in that direction,” he said.
The stakeholders’ meeting next week is expected to be a pivotal moment for the APC in Anambra State, as it seeks to present a united front ahead of the governorship election. With the adoption of the indirect primary mode, the party aims to minimize internal conflicts and focus on winning the confidence of Anambra voters.
As the countdown to the election begins, all eyes will be on the APC and its ability to navigate the complexities of party politics in the Southeast. The decision to adopt an indirect primary mode underscores the party’s determination to prioritize unity and inclusivity in its quest for electoral success.
Other NWC members present at the briefing included Tolu Bankole, APC National Leader for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs); Dayo Israel, Youth Leader; the National Financial Secretary; Deputy National Publicity Secretary; Duro Meseko and Zainab Ibrahim, Deputy National Women Leader.
The APC’s move to adopt an indirect primary mode for the Anambra governorship election signals a new phase in the party’s preparations, as it seeks to consolidate its position and emerge victorious in the upcoming polls.
