The screening committee for the 2026 All Progressives Congress (APC) national convention has begun screening aspirants seeking various positions in the party’s national working committee (NWC).
The exercise, conducted by the party’s Aspirants’ Screening Committee, is expected to assess the eligibility and credentials of aspirants.
Party stakeholders say the process ensures that only qualified and competent individuals are cleared to contest, in line with the APC constitution and guidelines.
During the exercise, the committee, chaired by Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, screened the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and asked him to take a bow in recognition of his commendable leadership, highlighting his contributions to the party.
Oyebanji, had earlier promised that the exercise would be carried out with fairness and transparency.
Committee Promises Fairness
Oyebanji made the remarks on Monday in Abuja at the committee’s inaugural meeting ahead of the screening. He emphasised that the process would follow both the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act.
“We are going to be transparent. We are going to be fair. We are going to be just to all of them,” Oyebanji said. “They are party members, and the party has guidelines that guide what we are going to do. We are going to do everything in accordance with the Constitution of the party and the Electoral Act. So they don’t have anything to fear.”
Ahmed Ododo, governor of Kogi State and co-chairman of the sub-committee, said all aspirants were deemed capable of the responsibilities they seek.
RELATED NEWS:
- APC Convention: Party Must Produce Credible Leaders, North-Central Tells Tinubu
- APC Appoints Uzodimma Chair of 73-member National Convention Committee
“This is not just about the APC; it is for the country. We have a mandate to screen aspirants who will lead this party effectively and efficiently,” Ododo said, adding that the committee would act without fear or favour.
Philip Shaibu, former deputy governor of Edo State and a member of the committee secretariat, said the panel had divided members into three teams for the screening exercise. About 30 aspirants are expected to be screened for various NWC positions at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.
Shaibu also expressed gratitude to Oyebanji and Ododo for supporting the committee financially despite the absence of mobilisation from the party. “We are really grateful to the governors of Ekiti and Kogi for helping us to operate even when we are yet to be mobilised by the party,” he said. “We have printed all materials, and hotel accommodations have also been secured by the chairmen.”
Former Senate President Ken Nnamani urged committee members to handle their task diligently.
“We must all work hard to deliver on this assignment. We must not relax or think that we have won the election,” Nnamani said.
“We must work hard because Nigerians out there are going through a lot, and we must encourage them to support and vote for President Bola Tinubu, who has done so much to reposition the country.”
The APC national convention is scheduled to hold later this week.
Photos of APC Convention Committee Screening
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
