The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dropped former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam, former Sports Minister Gbenga Elegbeleye, and 24 other prominent figures from the final candidate list released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Key Figures Affected
- Gabriel Suswam – Former Governor of Benue State
- Gbenga Elegbeleye – Former Minister of Sports
- 24 other senior APC members excluded from the final list
Implications for APC
- Internal Strategy: Analysts suggest the move reflects APC’s effort to consolidate loyalty and restructure its candidate lineup.
- Regional Impact: The exclusion of Suswam and Elegbeleye could weaken APC’s influence in Benue and Ondo States.
- Opposition Advantage: Rival parties may benefit from discontent among sidelined APC heavyweights.
Reactions and Fallout
- Party Insiders: Defend the decision as necessary for unity and discipline.
- Critics: Warn that sidelining experienced politicians may erode grassroots support.
- Civil Society Groups: Demand transparency on the criteria used for exclusions.
What Comes Next
- Legal Challenges: Some excluded candidates are expected to contest the decision in court.
- Possible Defections: Analysts predict defections to opposition parties, reshaping the electoral map.
- APC’s Narrative: The ruling party is likely to frame the move as a step toward renewal and accountability.
Bottom Line: APC’s exclusion of Suswam, Elegbeleye, and 24 others from the final INEC list marks a major political shake-up ahead of the 2026 elections.
Political pundits predict it may have potential ripple effects across Nigeria’s political landscape.
