Kano State – The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano has commenced the screening of candidates aspiring to run for the state House of Assembly, as announced on May 11, 2026. This screening, which began today, is part of the party’s internal process in preparation for the upcoming primary elections across Kano’s 40 constituencies. Yusuf Yahuza, the APC State Organising Secretary, shared details of the exercise in a statement on his Facebook page. The release emphasized that the screening reflects the party’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and internal democracy in selecting credible and competent candidates to represent the APC in various constituencies throughout Kano State.
The APC has made it clear that only aspirants who meet the established criteria will be eligible to contest in the primaries. The statement also underscored the party’s broader goal of nurturing leaders who are focused on the people and capable of contributing to legislative development and democratic governance in the state. Party officials indicated that the screening process will evaluate each aspirant’s qualifications, track record, and alignment with the party’s agenda concerning development, education, health, and security.
In addition to outlining procedural details, the APC has called for calm and unity among aspirants and their supporters. The statement urged all candidates and their camps to remain peaceful, united, and to exhibit sportsmanship throughout the primary election process. This appeal comes in light of reports of tension in other regions of the country, where intra-party contests have occasionally turned volatile. The Kano chapter’s initiative aligns with a nationwide effort by the APC to standardize candidate selection ahead of the 2027 general elections. Party leaders have committed to avoiding the “godfatherism” and vote-buying that have marred previous electoral cycles, with the screening intended to eliminate candidates lacking the necessary integrity or community support.
Political analysts suggest that the outcome of the Kano primaries could significantly influence the balance of power in the state legislature. Currently, the APC holds a slim majority in the House of Assembly, and a strong slate of candidates could strengthen its influence ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race. Conversely, internal divisions within the party could provide opportunities for opposition parties, particularly the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), to gain traction.
Observers from civil society groups have welcomed the transparent approach but emphasize the importance of maintaining integrity throughout the process. Aisha Bello, a member of the Kano Centre for Democratic Governance, remarked, “Screening is a positive step, but the real test will be whether the primaries are conducted free from manipulation.” The screening is scheduled to continue over the next two weeks, after which the APC will release a definitive list of approved aspirants for each constituency. The party has indicated that the primary elections will take place in June, with results expected to be announced by the end of the month.
As the APC advances with its candidate vetting, the political landscape in Kano is being closely monitored by national stakeholders. The party’s ability to present a united front and field credible candidates will be crucial for its performance in the upcoming legislative and gubernatorial contests, and will likely impact the broader trajectory of Nigeria’s democratic process.
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