By Sunday Stephen
The Elders of the Gongola Peoples in Adamawa State have issued a stern rejection of what they describe as covert moves within the All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Monday, Mr. Markus Gundiri, speaking for the group representing ethnic nationalities from the defunct Gongola region, sounded a clear warning: any attempt to sidestep internal democracy in choosing the party’s standard bearer will be met with stiff resistance.
While reaffirming their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and the APC’s national agenda, the elders drew a firm line against what they called “undemocratic imposition” at the state level.
“We will not accept, tolerate, or allow any form of imposition on our people,” the group declared. “Such tendencies are an affront to internal party democracy and a dangerous slide toward political authoritarianism.”
They insisted that the party’s governorship candidate must emerge through a transparent, free, and fair primary process, cautioning that any manipulation could severely damage the APC’s electoral prospects in Adamawa.
His words:”All aspirants must be given a level playing field. Whoever emerges must do so through the genuine choice of party members and delegates—not through the dictates of a powerful few”.
The elders further warned that sidelining stakeholders and ethnic blocs within the state could spark widespread backlash.
“Imposition only breeds resentment, weakens the party, and ultimately guarantees defeat at the polls,” they cautioned.
Calling on APC leaders at both national and state levels to uphold internal democracy, the group emphasized that fairness, credibility, and inclusiveness remain non-negotiable for the party’s stability and success.
They concluded by reaffirming their commitment to justice, equity, and the empowerment of the people, urging all political actors to respect democratic norms as the road to 2027 gathers momentum.