Stakeholders from the Hausa and Yoruba Communities in Abakpa Ward in Ebonyi LGA of Ebonyi State, have called on the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure inclusion, transparency, and fairness in the conduct of its ward-level primary election ahead of the 2026 local government polls.
The call followed concerns raised over the conduct of the APC ward primary, which community leaders and party supporters described as falling short of expected democratic standards when they staged a peaceful protest in front of old Government House Abakaliki.
Speaking during a peaceful gathering in the ward, Samin Ali Tofa, Youth Leader of the Hausa community, emphasized that internal party democracy remains the foundation of any credible electoral process.
He noted that party primaries should reflect the principles of participation, fairness, and equal opportunity, stressing that all eligible members regardless of ethnic or regional background are constitutionally entitled to vote and be voted for.
According to him, stakeholders were particularly concerned about what they described as late introduction of voting requirements, including the use of party membership cards, which they said were not clearly communicated prior to the election day.
“These procedures ought to be clearly stated at the point of purchasing nomination forms, so that all participants are adequately informed,” he said.
The Hausa community, alongside other supporters, appealed to the APC leadership at the state level to review the process and consider steps that would restore confidence among party faithful.
They maintained that their demand was not confrontational, but rather aimed at strengthening the party and ensuring that its internal processes reflect democratic values.
“Our request is simple: let the process be transparent and fair. If a review determines that lapses occurred, then corrective measures should be taken in the interest of unity and justice,” Tofa added.
Also speaking, Salisu Mohammed, an APC councilorship aspirant for Abakpa Ward, said members of the Hausa and Yoruba communities have remained loyal supporters of the party over the years and deserve a sense of belonging within the party structure.
He explained that Abakpa Ward is a multi-ethnic community comprising Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba, and other groups, and that inclusive leadership would further strengthen social cohesion and political stability.
Mohammed stated that the concerns raised were not intended to undermine the party, but to seek reassurance that all communities are treated equitably within the APC.
The Chairman of the Yoruba Community in the area, Kasim Bankoli, also urged party authorities to clarify the guidelines governing the primary election.
He stressed that clearly defined rules and uniform application of procedures would prevent misunderstandings and reinforce trust among party members.
Adding to the appeal, Fatima Usman, a women leader, highlighted the importance of inclusive political participation, noting that fairness in party primaries encourages continued grassroots support and strengthens democratic culture.
All speakers reiterated their commitment to peaceful engagement and lawful means of resolving disputes, urging party leaders to intervene constructively to maintain harmony within the ward.
As of the time of filing this report, no official declaration had been made regarding the outcome of the Abakpa Ward APC primary. Party officials had yet to issue a formal response to the concerns raised.
