…APC intensifies screening amid Rivers’ political tension
Anietie Udobit, Abuja
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Fresh political permutations ahead of the 2027 general elections gathered momentum on Monday as pressure groups within the Peoples Democratic Party intensified calls for former President Goodluck Jonathan to return to the presidential race.
The renewed campaign for Jonathan’s comeback comes amid growing dissatisfaction within sections of the opposition and increasing consultations among political stakeholders seeking a formidable challenger for the next election cycle.
Though the former president has remained silent on the calls, sources within the PDP say influential northern and southern blocs are quietly mobilising support around his name.
Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress has entered the final phase of screening aspirants seeking tickets into the National Assembly and state legislatures ahead of the party primaries scheduled for May 15 to May 23.
Top party figures, including Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, have reportedly scaled the screening process.
Political drama also unfolded in Rivers State after Governor Siminalayi Fubara appeared before the APC screening committee in circumstances that reignited speculations over his prolonged rift with Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Observers noted the absence of the committee chairman during Fubara’s appearance, further fuelling political intrigue surrounding the governor’s relationship with the party hierarchy and Wike’s political structure.
Analysts say the latest developments confirm that political alignments, defections, and coalition talks ahead of 2027 have entered a more aggressive phase.