Bauchi APC Aspirants Seek Redress Over Primary Election Grievances

A group of aspirants who contested in the All Progressives Congress primary election for seats in the Bauchi State House of Assembly have expressed their dissatisfaction with the party's handling of the election's aftermath. The aspirants, who are part of the Bauchi State House of Assembly 2026 APC Aspirants Forum, held a press briefing in Bauchi to air their grievances. According to Gazali Wunti, the group's spokesperson, their decision to speak out was not driven by bitterness or a desire to oppose the party, but rather by a desire to see the APC emerge stronger and better positioned for the forthcoming general elections. Wunti stated that many aspirants and their supporters were disappointed by the primary election's conduct and outcome, which they claimed did not meet the expectations of a truly competitive and democratic process. 'This press conference is not a product of bitterness, hostility or opposition to our great party. It is motivated by our sincere desire to see the APC emerge stronger and better positioned to secure victory in the forthcoming general elections,' Wunti said. The aspirants claimed that the primary election's aftermath had led to a wave of defections, with several aspirants leaving the APC for other parties due to grievances. Wunti described this development as a significant loss to the party, adding that the forum's members had chosen to remain within the APC and seek redress through constructive engagement. The group commended the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and the National Working Committee for initiating a review of the primary election process. However, they urged the party leadership to ensure that the review process is transparent, thorough, and fair, and that genuine complaints are addressed to pave the way for reconciliation. 'We respectfully urge that the review process be thorough, transparent, courageous and just. Let genuine grievances be fairly heard and appropriately addressed because that can birth genuine reconciliation,' Wunti said. The aspirants also called on the APC leadership to reach out to aggrieved members and supporters affected by the primaries to restore confidence and unity within the party. They demanded greater inclusion in party affairs, campaign structures, consultations, appointments, and decision-making processes at both state and federal levels. Despite their grievances, the forum reaffirmed its loyalty to the APC and pledged to work for the party's success in the next elections. However, they warned that continued neglect could further weaken party cohesion, emphasizing that unity, inclusiveness, fairness, and justice are essential to the APC's chances of securing electoral victory. 'We remain committed to working tirelessly for the victory of our great party in the forthcoming general elections. Our message is centred on inclusiveness, genuine reconciliation, recognition, unity, fairness and justice,' Wunti added. The aspirants expressed optimism that the party leadership would take practical steps to address their concerns and strengthen internal cohesion ahead of the polls.