A group of concerned stakeholders from Kogi Central Senatorial District, operating under the umbrella of APC Patriots, has submitted a formal petition to the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) demanding the immediate disqualification of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, from contesting the Senate seat ahead of the party’s primary election scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026.
The petitioners, led by Adejo Emmanuel and Oiza Abdulrahman, allege that Bello violated party procedures by failing to participate in the mandatory screening exercise conducted last weekend. According to the group, photographic and video evidence indicates that Bello was present at an interfaith programme in Lagos while other aspirants appeared before the screening panel.
The stakeholders argue that participation in the screening exercise is compulsory for all aspirants, and that Bello’s absence automatically renders him ineligible for the primary election.
The petition further alleges that following news of his absence, attempts were made to circumvent established party rules. The group claims Bello sought to undergo the screening by proxy, and that certain party officials were approached to arrange what they describe as a “private screening.”
The petitioners also allege that approximately $200,000 was deployed to facilitate the arrangement, warning that any off-schedule or unofficial screening would violate the APC constitution and its electoral guidelines.
“Any clearance obtained through such questionable means is procedurally defective, null and void,” the petition stated.
The stakeholders also accused the party leadership of failing to publish the official screening results, which they claim has denied aspirants the opportunity to file appeals within the stipulated timeframe.
They warned that proceeding with the primary without completing due process could expose the party to legal challenges and internal rebellion.
The petitioners have consequently demanded the immediate disqualification of Yahaya Bello, the publication of official screening results, and an independent investigation into the alleged financial inducement surrounding the reported private screening arrangement.
“The party must ensure that the rules apply equally to all members. A primary that lacks credibility cannot produce a candidate with a legitimate mandate,” the petition added.
As of press time, the APC NWC and Yahaya Bello’s campaign organization had not issued an official response to the allegations.
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