Tinubu’s Return Becomes Crucial As APC Battles Threat Of Defection By Fubara Loyalists

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently in fresh anxiety following the party’s silence on the outcome of its screening exercise for aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.

It was gathered that the uncertainty has heightened tension among supporters of some of the governorship aspirants, with the political future of the allies of the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara said to be at stake.

Sources told The Guardian that the APC national leadership had continued to resist pressure to release the screening report.

Some party sources attributed the delay to President Bola Tinubu’s trip to Kenya, saying leaders were waiting for his return before taking a final decision.

Others said the party was being cautious not to push aggrieved aspirants into rival political parties.

Members of the National Working Committee led by the National Chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, were absent on Wednesday at the APC National Secretariat, further raising concerns among camps of affected aspirants.

The absence of top members of the NWC raised fears over the fate of politicians believed to be loyal to Fubara in the APC structure in Rivers State.

Speculations were also rife over the modalities for the party’s direct primaries proposal.

Arrest related to fears Fubara loyalists may be marginalised or lose influence in Rivers Assembly – party sources

Reports say tension rose after allegations that some aspirants believed to be loyal to Fubara did not pass the party’s internal screening in Rivers State.

But the APC has rejected claims of bias and said the screening process followed laid down procedures.