The Pate Youth Ambassadors Initiatives (PYI) has urged Bauchi APC aspirants to ditch direct primaries in favor of consensus to prevent political tension and ensure party unity ahead of the 2027 elections.
A prominent political pressure group, the Pate Youth Ambassadors Initiatives (PYI), has called on aspirants within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State to adopt consensus candidacy as the party prepares for its internal primaries.
The group made this appeal during a news conference in Bauchi on Saturday, arguing that a unified front is essential for the party’s success in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
The Coordinator of the group, Mr. Mohammad Hassan, specifically reached out to aspirants vying for governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and State House of Assembly seats. He argued that consensus is currently the most viable democratic option to promote stability and reduce the friction often associated with direct primaries.
Hassan highlighted that while party stakeholders had previously met in Abuja and leaned toward direct primaries, the potential for internal division and security risks remains high. He noted that conducting widespread direct primaries could expose supporters to unnecessary dangers given the current national security climate.
“At a time Nigerians are calling for peace and stability, political activities should not become avenues for conflict,” Hassan stated. He emphasized that consensus encourages reconciliation and strengthens party cohesion by bringing aspirants to a mutual understanding before the polls.
The group drew parallels to previous political cycles, specifically the era of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in Bauchi, where they alleged that disagreements stemming from direct primaries weakened the party from within. Hassan warned that the APC must learn from these historical precedents to avoid creating “avoidable risks” and political hostility.
Acknowledging that no electoral method is entirely free of criticism, Hassan admitted that complaints are a natural part of politics. “Even if direct primaries are conducted, there will still be complaints because there will always be individuals who disagree with the outcome,” he noted. However, he maintained that a consensus approach minimizes these grievances by involving key stakeholders in the decision-making process from the outset.
Addressing local speculations regarding his standing to comment on party affairs, Hassan reaffirmed his commitment to the APC. He dismissed claims that his views were irrelevant due to his principal’s current status in the race, asserting his right as a loyal member to contribute to the discourse on the party’s future.
The group concluded by urging all Bauchi APC stakeholders to prioritize the long-term survival and victory of the party over individual political ambitions.
Visit GMTNewsng for more news stories.
