The All Progressives Congress (APC) generated more than N4.45 billion from the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms during recent election cycles, as governors and party leaders intensified efforts to maintain unity despite growing internal leadership tensions ahead of future political contests.
The financial figures, which have continued to attract public attention, reflect the enormous scale of political activities within Nigeria’s ruling party as aspirants competed for various elective positions across the country. The revenue came from forms purchased by aspirants seeking presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and other political offices under the APC platform.
The development comes at a time when influential party stakeholders are working to prevent widening divisions within the APC, particularly over leadership structures, succession plans, and political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governors elected on the APC platform have reportedly moved to strengthen internal cohesion within the party amid concerns that unresolved disputes could weaken the ruling party’s political dominance. Meetings involving governors, party executives, and key political figures have focused on preserving unity while addressing disagreements over influence and party direction.
Despite public displays of solidarity, tensions have continued to emerge within sections of the party over issues ranging from appointments and regional representation to control of party structures in various states.
Political observers say the APC’s ability to maintain internal stability could play a major role in determining its electoral strength in future elections, especially as opposition parties seek to reorganize and build stronger coalitions.
The over N4.45 billion generated from nomination forms also reignited debates over the high cost of political participation in Nigeria.
Critics argue that the expensive forms place political offices beyond the reach of many ordinary citizens and favor wealthy aspirants or those backed by influential political interests.
During previous election cycles, the APC set varying fees for aspirants contesting different positions. Presidential nomination forms were among the most expensive, while governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and state assembly forms also attracted substantial costs.
Party officials have defended the pricing structure in the past, arguing that political parties require significant resources to organize primaries, administrative operations, campaigns, and nationwide activities.
However, civil society groups and political reform advocates have repeatedly called for lower nomination costs, warning that excessive fees may discourage youth participation and weaken internal democracy.
Within the APC, recent discussions have reportedly centered on balancing party discipline with competing political ambitions among influential members. Some stakeholders are believed to be positioning themselves early for strategic roles ahead of the next election cycle, contributing to behind-the-scenes rivalries.
Analysts note that Nigeria’s political parties often experience internal tensions after gaining power, as competing factions struggle for influence over leadership decisions and access to political structures.
The APC, formed in 2013 through a merger of major opposition parties, has remained one of the country’s dominant political forces since winning the presidency in 2015. However, the party has also witnessed periodic internal disputes, defections, and leadership crises over the years.
Recent efforts by APC governors to present a united front are seen as part of broader attempts to avoid divisions that could affect governance and future electoral performance.
Party leaders have repeatedly emphasized the need for cohesion and collective responsibility.
Observers believe the coming months could prove critical for the APC as conversations around succession politics, economic challenges, and governance continue to shape the national political environment.
The party’s leadership has not publicly indicated any immediate threat to internal stability, but analysts say unresolved grievances within political blocs could become more visible as preparations for future elections intensify.
For now, the APC remains firmly in control at the federal level and across many states, but political watchers say maintaining unity among its powerful members will be essential as the country gradually moves toward another election season.
