APC Advances Nationwide Ward Congresses Amid Political Shifts
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken significant steps to strengthen its grassroots structures across various states in Nigeria. On Wednesday, the party advanced its nationwide ward congresses, marking a critical phase in its internal organization and political strategy. This move comes at a time when the APC is navigating key political transitions, particularly in Adamawa State, where the exercise was postponed to accommodate potential defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The party had scheduled the ward congresses for February 18, but the event in Adamawa was delayed. This decision was made to ensure a smooth integration of Governor Ahmadu Fintiri and other prospective defectors into APC structures. The postponement was seen as a strategic move to protect the governor’s interests within the party.
Despite some reports of violence in Ondo State, the ward congresses in Ogun, Edo, Kwara, Delta, Oyo, Benue, and Kebbi proceeded peacefully, largely through consensus. This peaceful conduct highlights the party’s commitment to internal democracy and unity.
Political Developments in Adamawa
Sources within the party confirmed that the delay in Adamawa was designed to accommodate the governor and other potential defectors. A member of the PDP Caretaker Committee, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that Fintiri was expected to leave the opposition party in a matter of weeks. This development could significantly impact the political landscape in Adamawa, as the governor’s support would bolster the APC’s position in the state.
A senior APC official also mentioned that the rescheduling was intended to protect the governor’s interests within the party structures. Last week, Fintiri declared his willingness to serve wherever his people wanted him to, and he was praised for his performance during President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to the state.
The APC formally announced the postponement of Adamawa’s ward and local government congresses in a letter dated February 17, 2026, addressed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The letter, signed by APC National Chairman Prof Nentawe Yilwatda and National Secretary Dr Ajibola Basiru, outlined the reasons for the delay.
Peaceful Conduct in Other States
In Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun commended the peaceful ward congresses held across all 20 local government areas. He praised the orderly conduct of party members and their commitment to internal democracy. At the end of the congress in Ikenne Local Government Area, Alhaji Sanni Razaq was elected as ward chairman, Yinka Balogun as secretary, and Morouf Okugboye as vice chairman.
Similarly, in Edo State, the ward congresses were held across the 192 wards, with leaders emerging on a consensus basis. The state chairman, Jarret Tenebe, called on newly elected leaders to present good leadership and mobilize people for the Continuous Voters Registration.
In Kwara State, the exercise was conducted in a peaceful and carnival-like atmosphere. The State Chairman, Sunday Fagbemi, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the members and the transparency of the process. Every participant underwent rigorous vetting, ensuring a credible and fair selection of leaders.
Unity and Inclusivity in Delta State
Delta State saw a successful and orderly conduct of the ward congresses, with the committee overseeing the exercise applauding party members for their maturity and discipline. Former governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa participated in the process, voting for consensus candidates for ward chairman and other officers.
Former National Woman Leader Stella Okotete highlighted the inclusiveness of the congress, noting the emergence of women in key positions such as vice chairman, welfare officer, treasurer, and assistant youth leader. The lawmaker representing the Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, described the exercise as “peaceful, inclusive, and free of dissent.”
Successful Exercises in Oyo and Benue
In Oyo State, the successful conduct of the ward congresses was attributed to the dedication and commitment of party members. A statement from the Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, credited the competence and diligence of the congress committees deployed by the national headquarters.
In Benue State, the exercise was held across the 276 council wards. The Chairman of Ward and Local Government Congresses, Dr Auwalu Ishya, emphasized the importance of screening aspirants and submitting a set of names for consideration.
Kebbi State Highlights
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris charged newly elected ward executives to promote unity among members and uphold party supremacy. He described the peaceful conduct of the congresses as a reflection of the prevailing calm in the state. The Chairman of the Ward Congress Election Committee, Abdulmalik Mahmud, commended party members for adopting consensus in selecting their ward executives, in line with the party’s constitution.
