The All Progressives Congress (APC) has concluded its House of Representatives primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections, with several children of prominent political figures, serving lawmakers and influential party stakeholders securing tickets across the country.
The primaries, conducted in various states, produced a combination of returning incumbents and new candidates with strong political backgrounds, further highlighting the growing influence of political families within the party structure.
Among the notable winners is Adamu Abubakar, son of former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, who clinched the APC ticket for Chanchaga Federal Constituency in Niger State after securing 30,650 votes, defeating his closest rival, Nmaa Ahmed, who polled 1,271 votes.
Also emerging as a candidate is Yusuf Muhammadu Buhari, son of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who secured the APC ticket for Daura Federal Constituency in Katsina State after defeating Auwal Lawal Musa in the contest.
In Benue State, Blessing Onuh, daughter of former Senate President David Mark, also secured a return ticket under the APC for Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency, reinforcing her position in the National Assembly race.
The primaries also produced victories for key party figures, including Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who both secured their party tickets for reelection alongside several other lawmakers across the country.
However, the exercise also saw some serving lawmakers losing their return tickets, as internal party contests led to unexpected outcomes in several constituencies. Reports indicated that a number of aspirants were disqualified during screening, while others failed to secure nominations amid competitive delegate voting.
The primaries were characterized by a mix of consensus arrangements, internal negotiations and competitive voting, shaping the final list of APC candidates for the 2027 elections.
Party officials have described the process as part of efforts to strengthen internal democracy within the party, even as the outcome continues to generate debate over elite dominance and the role of political dynasties in Nigeria’s electoral system.
