APC Eyes December Elective Convention as NEC Meeting Set for July 24

Barring any last-minute changes, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to inaugurate a convention planning committee during its forthcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for July 24. The move is expected to pave the way for a full National Elective Convention in December, during which new members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) will be elected ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections.

Multiple sources within the party have confirmed that beyond replacing former National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, there is growing pressure from APC governors and stakeholders for a comprehensive leadership overhaul. The aim is to reposition the party and accommodate influential figures and new entrants expected to play key roles in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

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Convention Planning on the Horizon

Speaking under anonymity due to lack of authorization, party insiders told The PUNCH that the upcoming NEC meeting will be pivotal. While some NWC members are lobbying to restrict the leadership changes to only the national chairman’s seat, others are pushing for a total reconstitution of the entire committee.

A top source explained, “There may be a national elective convention in December. Nobody is planning to replace Dalori (acting chairman) in July to the best of my knowledge. He will oversee the party until the convention where new leaders will emerge.”

The NEC meeting is expected to lead to the formation of a convention planning committee, signaling the start of formal preparations for what many describe as the APC’s most critical internal reshuffle since the last general elections.

 Push for Full NWC Overhaul Gathers Momentum

At the heart of the debate is Article 12(4) of the APC Constitution (2022 as amended), which defines the NWC as a 22-member body, including the National Chairman, Deputy Chairmen (North and South), six Zonal Chairmen, and other key officers such as the National Secretary, Treasurer, Legal Adviser, Publicity Secretary, and Woman and Youth Leaders.

Also relevant is Article 17 of the constitution, which limits tenures to two four-year terms and prohibits any member from concurrently holding offices at both national and state levels—unless in an ex-officio capacity.

Despite these guidelines, history shows that no APC chairman or NWC member has ever completed a full term in office. Ganduje’s resignation on June 27, 2025, is the latest in a long line of truncated tenures, reportedly due to internal power dynamics and pre-2027 election strategy.

Party leaders see the December convention as a critical step to install a leadership team that reflects the current political landscape, especially after recent defections and alignments at state and national levels.

Another insider said, “This is not just about replacing Ganduje. The broader objective is to produce new NWC members who will lead the party into the 2027 elections. Governors and other stakeholders are insisting on this total reset.”

Presidency’s Input Expected to Shape Agenda

While the NEC meeting is anticipated to set the tone for the convention, the final decision is likely to rest with President Bola Tinubu, who is recognized as the party’s national leader. In the coming days, governors and senior party officials are expected to brief the President to seek his guidance.

Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, confirmed that the agenda for the NEC meeting has not yet been finalized and stressed that only after consultations with the President will a clear direction emerge.

“There’s nothing like that (a convention) for now. Everything about whether to have an elective convention in December is for the NEC to decide. Mr. President will engage with the party’s leadership on the agenda for that day,” Meseko said.

Diverging Interests Within the Party

Behind the scenes, lobbying is already in full swing. Several current NWC members are reportedly trying to influence NEC members to limit the scope of changes to Ganduje’s replacement. However, this move is facing resistance from a coalition of governors and political blocs who believe a full overhaul is necessary.

One source noted, “Some are already lobbying to keep their seats. But the prevailing sentiment is that the party needs new energy and representation, especially with recent political shifts. The December convention offers that opportunity.”

Stronger APC Ahead?

The APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, also weighed in, urging Nigerians to anticipate a stronger and more cohesive party following the NEC and subsequent meetings.

In an exclusive with The PUNCH, he stated, “This party has survived storms before. Those celebrating Ganduje’s exit prematurely should be cautious. We’re preparing for something more unified and effective.”

As the July 24 NEC meeting approaches, all eyes will be on the APC to see whether it opts for continuity or transformation. Either way, the December convention may become a defining moment for the ruling party as it recalibrates its leadership structure in anticipation of another election cycle.