The Special Assistant to the Governor of Ebonyi State on Interparty Affairs, Comrade Sunday Nwambam, has defended the adoption of the consensus mode of nomination by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, warning that attempts to oppose the decision could trigger unnecessary political tension.
Nwambam made the statement while briefing journalists on Saturday in Abakaliki, saying the decision to adopt consensus followed wide consultations with stakeholders across the three senatorial zones and was aimed at preserving unity and stability within the party ahead of the next general elections.
He noted that the leadership of the party in the state, under Governor Francis Nwifuru, had demonstrated inclusiveness by allowing major stakeholders to contribute to the decision-making process.
According to him, calls by some politicians for the adoption of direct primaries were misplaced and capable of undermining the peace and cohesion currently enjoyed within the party.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the party remains open to legally recognised methods of nomination, but consensus has proven to be a credible and less contentious option,” he said.
Nwambam referenced earlier remarks by the National Chairman of the APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, who stated that while the party is flexible in its approach to primaries, the credibility of the process remains paramount.
He explained that the preference for consensus aligns with provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act, which places greater emphasis on internal party mechanisms in the nomination of candidates.
The governor’s aide stressed that consensus is not an imposition but a product of mutual agreement among stakeholders, adding that it helps to reduce internal conflicts, promote unity and cut down the high costs associated with primary elections.
He described as “unhealthy and unacceptable” the actions of some party members who have publicly opposed the consensus arrangement, despite having benefited from similar decisions in the past.
Nwambam called on all political actors in the state to respect the decision of stakeholders and refrain from making statements capable of heating up the political environment.
He also pointed out that President Bola Tinubu had recently affirmed the role of governors in overseeing processes leading to the emergence of party candidates in their respective states, noting that Governor Nwifuru acted within his mandate.
He urged aspirants who may not have benefited from the consensus arrangement to accept the outcome in good faith, describing the process as a mechanism that saves time and resources.
Nwambam further commended the state party leadership, led by Chief Stanley Okoroemegha, for what he described as bold and strategic leadership in adopting the consensus option.
He expressed optimism that the decision would ensure a seamless emergence of party flag bearers and position the APC for victory in the forthcoming elections.
