Political tension swept through the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday after the party disqualified 47 senatorial aspirants, including media mogul Ben Bruce and three serving senators, from participating in its forthcoming senate primary elections.
The development was announced in a statement issued by the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, who said the affected aspirants were not cleared following the party’s screening exercise.
According to Morka, the screening was conducted by designated committees in line with the party’s established procedures, constitutional provisions, and electoral guidelines ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The announcement has already triggered widespread reactions within political circles, with party loyalists and supporters expressing shock over the exclusion of several high-profile contenders from the race.
While the APC did not immediately disclose the specific reasons for the disqualification of each aspirant, party insiders hinted that issues relating to eligibility requirements, documentation irregularities, and compliance with party rules may have influenced the decisions.
The inclusion of prominent figures among those barred from contesting has further heightened speculation over internal power struggles and strategic political realignments within the ruling party.
Ben Bruce, a former senator and businessman known for his outspoken political views and media influence, was among the most notable names reportedly affected by the screening outcome. The identities of the three serving senators were yet to be officially detailed at the time of filing this report.
Observers say the move could reshape the political landscape in several states as aspirants battle for APC tickets ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested election cycle.
Despite the controversy, APC leadership insisted that the screening process was transparent and strictly guided by the party’s internal regulations.
Morka stated that the exercise was aimed at ensuring that only qualified and credible aspirants emerge to represent the party in the senate elections.
“The screening committees carried out their assignment in accordance with established procedures and guidelines of the party,” the statement said.
Political analysts believe the mass disqualification may spark appeals, legal battles, and intensified lobbying within the party as affected aspirants seek reconsideration before the primaries commence.
The APC is expected to release further details regarding appeals procedures and the final list of cleared aspirants in the coming days.
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