The Elders of the Gongola Peoples of Adamawa State have rejected what they characterized as a move by some unknown interests inside the All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a governorship candidate before the 2027 general elections.
The group, which comprises of ethnic nations from the erstwhile Gongola region, cautioned that any attempt to sabotage internal democracy in the choice of the party’s flagbearer would be vehemently resisted. Markus Gundiri who spoke on behalf of the group at a news conference Monday in Abuja, said:
The elders stressed that while they support the continuance of the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the broader objectives of the APC at the national level, such support does not extend to what they dubbed “undemocratic imposition” of candidates at the state level.
“We will not accept and tolerate and allow no form of imposition on our people,” the organization warned. “Such tendencies are a shame on internal party democracy and a dangerous drift towards political authoritarianism.”
They highlighted that a candidate for governor should be selected through a transparent, free and fair primary election, warning that any manipulation of the process might put the party’s chances in the general election at risk.
“Every aspirant should be provided with a level playing field. The elders added: “Whoever emerges must do so through the genuine choice of party members and delegates, not through the dictates of a powerful few.
The group also cautioned that ignoring the collective decision of the party stakeholders in Adamawa State could bring about a reaction from the ethnic nationalities in the state.
They warned that imposition would foster discontent, undermine the party and ensure its defeat in the general elections.
They urged on the leadership of the APC at national and state levels to adhere to internal democratic processes, saying credibility and justice are key to the party’s stability and success in the polls.
The group re-affirmed its commitment to justice, equity, fairness and empowerment of the people, calling on political actors to adhere to democratic standards as preparations for the 2027 elections heat up.
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