Following a late-night meeting in Lagos, the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF) has resolved to maintain the All Progressives Congress (APC) party's current zoning of leadership, excluding any possibility of rezoning key positions.
The meeting, which ended at 1:45 a.m. on Monday, was chaired by Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State. Uzodimma stated that the governors' unanimous decision not to change the party's leadership structure is independent of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's presidency.
Concerns Amidst National Convention Preparations
Ahead of the APC's nationwide convention, scheduled to take place from March 27 to 28 in Abuja, several committees have been set up, including one responsible for candidate screening. However, despite these preparations, the party's zoning arrangement has been criticized by some aspirants.
Those competing for positions within the National Working Committee (NWC) have expressed concerns that the zoning arrangement has unfairly disqualified many from participating in the race.
Complaints of Systematic Exclusion from NWC Contests
- Several aspirants have pointed to what they describe as "systematic" efforts to prevent them from expressing interest in NWC membership through the zoning arrangement.
- Oyiborume Paul Yovwe, a candidate for the National Secretary position, claims to have been denied the nomination form despite following the required procedure.
In Abuja, Yovwe criticized what he termed an unfair approach, questioning how serving party officials could be guaranteed positions without an open contest.
Yovwe's case highlights broader concerns about the APC's zoning arrangement and its implications for the party's future. As the convention draws near, these issues will continue to shape the party's agenda and challenges ahead.
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