By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The All Progressives Congress held its 8th elective National Convention on Friday night at Eagle Square. The event brought together party leaders, delegates, and aspirants to elect National Working Committee members. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima attended. The party adopted a consensus arrangement for most positions, while security restrictions disrupted media coverage.
Consensus Candidates Take Centre Stage
Several party leaders emerged as consensus candidates for key positions. Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda from Plateau State is set to become National Chairman.
Other notable figures include:
- Hon. Abubakar Dalori – Deputy National Chairman (North)
- Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru – National Secretary
- Professor Abdulkarim Abubakar Kana – Deputy National Secretary
- Mu’azu Bawa Rijau – National Vice Chairman (North Central)
- Barrister Muritala Aliyu Kankia – National Legal Adviser
- Felix Morka – National Publicity Secretary
- Dayo Israel – National Youth Leader
These candidates are expected to be affirmed during the convention.
Contested Positions Draw Attention
Despite the consensus approach, two key positions remain contested.
Chief Emma Eneukwu will face Hon. Ben Nwoye for Deputy National Chairman (South).
Meanwhile, Hon. Ignatius Nwapa and Hon. Nduka Anyanwu are competing for National Welfare Secretary.
Security Measures Disrupt Journalists
Security operatives enforced strict measures across Abuja during the convention. Consequently, journalists struggled to access the venue.
Police and soldiers blocked major roads leading to Eagle Square. As a result, many accredited reporters walked long distances.
Although they carried valid tags, officials denied several journalists entry. Some operatives even issued threats at checkpoints.
Later, journalists who gained access took shelter at the Nasarawa State Pavilion. However, party delegates forced them to leave after disagreements.
High-Profile Attendance at Convention
Top government officials and party leaders attended the event. These included:
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio
- Speaker Tajudeen Abbas
- APC governors, ministers, and lawmakers
Their presence highlighted the importance of the convention ahead of future political activities.
Convention Begins Amid Tight Control
The convention officially started at about 8:15 p.m. Organisers structured the process around consensus to avoid internal conflicts. However, the heavy security presence overshadowed proceedings.
