Convention: APC National Chairman Declares Screening Process Transparent

Ahead of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention scheduled for March 27 to 28, 2026, the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, has described the screening process as transparent, well-organised, and driven by institutional processes rather than individual influence.

Yilwatda made the remarks after appearing before the APC National Convention Aspirants’ Screening Committee at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, where he was screened and subsequently asked to “take a bow” in recognition of what the panel described as his commendable leadership.

The screening committee, chaired by Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, conducted the exercise as part of preparations for the party’s forthcoming national convention.

Addressing journalists shortly after the screening, Yilwatda praised the APC’s commitment to due process, stressing that under the current leadership, all members are subject to the same internal mechanisms regardless of status.

The APC chairman also asserted that the ruling party remains the only political platform in Nigeria with a truly national spread and a functional internal democratic system.

“In the APC, it has been different. Everybody is subject to the system and how it operates. The processes have become more transparent and organized, and the system now prevails over individuals,” he said.

He commended the screening committee and other subcommittees for what he described as a seamless, conflict-free convention process, contrasting it with what he termed recurring crises in opposition parties.

Yilwatda further maintained that the APC remains the only party with electoral victories and organisational presence across all six geopolitical zones.

“If you look at recent by-elections, APC has recorded wins in Kano, Zaria, Adamawa, the South-West, South-South, and South-East. No other political party has achieved this in the past year,” he said.

Reaffirming his commitment to the party, Yilwatda pledged to consolidate on existing achievements if re-elected, stressing that the APC prioritises committed membership over mere political alliances.

On his part, the APC National Secretary, Ajibola Bashiru, commended the committee for ensuring a successful screening exercise.

Speaking with journalists after the exercise, the APC scribe said the screening process went smoothly, adding that the committee acknowledged the progress recorded under his leadership at the party’s national secretariat since he assumed office in August 2023.

“It was okay. The committee acknowledged what we have been doing since we assumed office and charged us to continue working towards growing the party, ensuring cohesion, fairness, and justice for all members,” he said.

Bashiru noted that despite the competitive nature of internal party contests, his tenure has delivered measurable progress, particularly in expanding membership through a name-based registration system. According to him, the initiative has grown the party’s database to about 12 million members while improving internal coordination.