APC Confirms Consensus Approach for 2026 National Leadership Elections
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially adopted a consensus model for selecting its national leaders at its upcoming convention, scheduled for March 27–28, 2026, in Abuja. The announcement was made by Mrs. Mary Ikoku, Assistant Secretary, Media and Publicity for the APC National Convention 2026, during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.
According to Ikoku, the party’s leadership has decided that consensus will govern the election for top national positions. However, she drew a distinction regarding other elective roles, noting that local political dynamics often prevent a unified consensus across all contests. “Politics is local,” she stated, adding that outcomes for certain elective positions are frequently determined by grassroots negotiations and may not align with a single, party-wide agreement.
The convention spokesperson also addressed Nigeria’s new Electoral Act, which requires political parties to digitally register members within a stipulated period and regulates candidate selection procedures. While Ikoku acknowledged that the provisions present operational challenges for all parties, she characterised criticisms from opposition groups as evidence of inadequate preparation. She implied that the APC is proactively adapting to the new regulatory framework.
This decision sets the stage for the APC’s internal coordination ahead of the 2026 general election cycle. The consensus approach for key national offices is intended to foster unity and reduce intra-party friction, though the practical application for lower-level contests may vary by region. The convention will formally ratify these selections and other party resolutions.
The adoption of consensus reflects a common strategy in Nigerian politics aimed at preventing public splits and presenting a cohesive front. Its success will depend on the ability of party stakeholders to agree on candidates without emerging disputes. Meanwhile, compliance with the online membership registration mandate under the Electoral Act remains a critical administrative task for the APC and all other registered parties as they prepare for future elections.
The 2026 national convention is therefore a pivotal event, signalling the APC’s leadership direction and its readiness to meet both internal cohesion goals and external regulatory requirements in the lead-up to the next electoral cycle.
