APC’s New Rules: A Bold Move Toward Internal Democracy and Accountability, By Gbemi Daniel

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party, has rolled out a new set of statutory rules that could redefine internal politics and power distribution across its structures. This strategic reform package targets long-standing issues of candidate imposition, weak internal democracy, and unchecked influence from political heavyweights, particularly at the state level.

At a time when public trust in political parties is waning, APC’s move could be seen as a proactive step to restore credibility, ensure fair play, and strengthen the party ahead of upcoming elections.

1. Central Command: NWC Now Holds Supreme Authority

One of the most notable changes is the reinforcement of the National Working Committee (NWC) as the ultimate authority in the party. From now on, the NWC, based at the APC National Headquarters, will have overriding powers over all State, Local Government, and Ward chapters.

This is designed to curb the overreach of state party leaders and governors, ensuring uniformity in decision-making and greater control by the national body.

2. First Right of Refusal for Incumbent Presidents and Governors

In a unique move, the APC now grants first right of refusal to incumbent Presidents and Governors seeking re-election. This means that a sitting President or Governor, if they wish to contest for a second term, will have automatic priority to run in the party primary, unless they voluntarily withdraw.

This rule simplifies the re-election process for performing incumbents while minimizing unnecessary intra-party conflict.

 3. Credible and Transparent Party Primaries

To address one of the party’s most criticized practices, the imposition of candidates, the APC has made it mandatory for all other aspirants to emerge through statutory and credible primaries.

Moreover, only true winners of those primaries, based on verifiable accreditation and electoral strength, will have their names submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

This rule is a direct blow to the culture of handpicking candidates, especially by sitting governors and state party chairmen, and represents a strong statement in favor of electoral fairness.

 4. Power Shift: Outgoing Governors Must Step Aside from Party Leadership

In another significant reform, the APC has introduced a rule that any two-term Governor wishing to contest another position (e.g. Senate) must step down as the State Party Leader immediately upon declaring their intention.

To avoid conflict of interest, the National Party Leader will then appoint an acting State Leader to oversee the primaries. This ensures a level playing field for other aspirants and discourages manipulation using state machinery.

These new rules reflect APC’s intention to clean house and rebrand itself as a party that upholds internal democracy, fairness, and accountability. They directly address key challenges that have haunted Nigerian party politics for decades, from imposition and favoritism to weak grassroots empowerment.

However, as with all policy changes, implementation will be key. The real test lies not in the boldness of the rules, but in how consistently and fairly they are enforced.

If enforced effectively, APC may set a precedent for other parties and inspire a new era of political reform across the country.