Ahead of party presidential primary election, the National Working Committee, NWC, of the All Progressives Congress, APC has waived, screening requirements for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The decision was reached at the NWC’s 188th meeting held on May 6, 2026.
In a statement issued by the Party’s Spokesperson, Felix Morka, said the NWC deemed the president “as duly screened in accordance with the Constitution of the Party for the purpose of participation in the upcoming primary elections.”
The NWC said the move was justified under provisions of the party’s constitution, with the committee citing Tinubu’s incumbent status, prior clearance in 2022, and widespread endorsements from key party stakeholders as reasons for the waiver.
“This decision was made pursuant to the powers conferred on the NWC under Article 13.4 (xiii) and (xiv) of the Constitution of APC to organise and supervise the Party’s primaries and, in special circumstances, grant waivers, in the best interest of the Party.
According to the party, the constitutional provisions empower the NWC to organise and supervise party primaries as well as grant waivers in special circumstances where necessary in the interest of the party.
The APC explained that Tinubu’s exemption from the screening process was based on his status as the incumbent President and leader of the ruling party, noting that he had already undergone screening and clearance ahead of the 2022 presidential primaries.
The party described any fresh appearance before a screening panel as unnecessary and redundant.Nigerian political analysis
“The National Working Committee resolved to waive, and has waived, screening requirements for His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and deemed him as duly screened in accordance with the Constitution of the Party for the purpose of participation in the upcoming primary elections,” the statement read.
The APC further stated that Tinubu had continued to enjoy overwhelming endorsements and votes of confidence from major stakeholders within the party.
These, according to the party, include the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), members and leadership of the National Assembly, as well as other critical organs of the APC.
The ruling party recalled that Tinubu also received strong backing during the APC National Summit held on May 22, 2025, alongside endorsements at other statutory meetings and gatherings of the party.
