APC consensus plan for selecting candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections is under review, as the ruling All Progressives Congress considers abandoning the arrangement in several politically sensitive states due to rising internal disagreements and unresolved aspirant rivalries.

The All Progressives Congress introduced the consensus approach as part of its strategy to reduce internal conflict and streamline candidate selection ahead of major elections. However, the approach has increasingly faced resistance in several states where political interests are deeply divided among party stakeholders, aspirants, and incumbent office holders.

The Independent National Electoral Commission’s timetable for party primaries has also intensified pressure on political parties to conclude internal arrangements within strict deadlines.

The APC consensus plan is now facing uncertainty in multiple “flashpoint” states, where negotiations among stakeholders have reportedly stalled.

Party sources indicate that where consensus cannot be reached, the leadership is considering direct primaries as an alternative method of candidate selection. According to reports, the party is working on a timetable for primary elections covering governorship, National Assembly, and presidential aspirants ahead of the 2027 polls.

A senior party source said incumbent governors are being prioritised in determining successors, but disagreements in some states may override consensus arrangements. The APC consensus plan has already produced agreements in some states, including Lagos, Oyo, and Ogun, while negotiations continue in others such as Nasarawa, Kwara, Adamawa, Yobe, and Bauchi.

Where disputes persist, party leaders have suggested that direct primaries may be adopted to prevent internal breakdown and maintain electoral competitiveness. Party officials also noted that the decision is aimed at avoiding imposition crises, which could trigger defections or anti-party activities if stakeholders feel excluded.

The potential review of the APC consensus plan highlights ongoing tensions between party unity and internal democracy.

While consensus arrangements are designed to reduce conflict and campaign costs, critics argue they may limit open competition and deepen internal dissatisfaction. A shift to direct primaries in some states could reshape internal power structures and influence candidate emergence ahead of the 2027 elections.