The All Progressives Congress (APC) faces internal tension ahead of its Kaduna North primary election, as concerns grow over possible candidate imposition. A statement from a concerned citizen warned that perceived favouritism, particularly speculation linking Governor Uba Sani to aspirant Samaila Suleiman, could undermine party unity and voter trust. Kaduna North, described as politically conscious and responsive to governance realities, has historically rewarded candidates with grassroots credibility rather than elite backing. The statement stressed that voters in the constituency prioritise accessibility, tangible impact, and sustained community engagement over party directives.
Perceived manipulation of the primary process risks weakening APC's cohesion and triggering voter apathy or silent protest votes. The statement cautioned that the party's dominance in the area rests on trust and local engagement, not political inheritance. A fair and transparent primary is presented as critical to ensuring the eventual candidate has legitimacy and public support. The electorate's responsiveness to genuine political investment makes top-down decisions especially dangerous in this constituency.
Samaila Suleiman's alleged advantage in the APC primary, whether real or perceived, exposes a deeper vulnerability in the party's hold on Kaduna North. When voters believe outcomes are pre-determined, credibility erodes—especially in a constituency that values direct engagement over political connections. For Nigerians in Kaduna North, the primary is not just about choosing a candidate but about preserving a political culture where influence is earned, not handed down.
