Fresh political tension has erupted within the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) after the party released the names of aspirants approved for its upcoming primary elections, with figures linked to Governor Siminalayi Fubara largely shut out of the process.
The party confirmed that only 33 aspirants scaled through the screening exercise, while 65 others were denied clearance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Among those affected were 32 aspirants reportedly aligned with Fubara’s political structure, a development already fueling speculation of deepening divisions within the APC in Rivers State.
However, lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly, who were believed to be loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, were cleared to participate in the primaries.
The outcome has further highlighted the widening political rivalry between camps loyal to Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, despite ongoing calls for unity within the state’s political landscape.
In a statement signed by the APC State Publicity Secretary, Chibike Ikenga, aspirants who purchased nomination and expression of interest forms for the State House of Assembly election were directed to confirm their screening status at the party’s secretariat along Aba Road in Port Harcourt.
Ikenga also disclosed that aspirants dissatisfied with the screening outcome could file appeals through the party secretariat.
“The appeal process will commence on Tuesday by 10 a.m. at the state secretariat,” he said.
Meanwhile, the screening committee explained that several aspirants were disqualified over alleged irregularities linked to party membership documentation and other compliance issues.
According to the committee, some aspirants failed to present valid voter cards, while others allegedly submitted incomplete affidavits or had inconsistencies in personal records.
The committee further accused certain aspirants of attempting to influence members through inducement, describing such actions as violations of the party’s constitutional guidelines.
Other reasons cited included unpaid membership dues by nominators, irregular membership details, insufficient ward nominations, and discrepancies in names and dates of birth submitted in official documents.
Political observers said the latest development could intensify internal power struggles within the Rivers APC as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 elections.
Moreover, analysts believe the screening outcome may trigger fresh alignments and legal disputes if aggrieved aspirants challenge the process in court or through the party’s appeal mechanism.
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