The All Progressives Congress (APC) has assured that it would ensure that democratic processes are followed in the emergence of its candidates ahead of the 2023 elections.
It said the measure would guide against imposition of candidates which created a lot of misgivings and bred factions among its fold in the past.
The party was earlier quoted as saying that it would present a consensus presidential candidate in the lead up to 2023 elections.
Reacting to allegations by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s to the effect that President Muhammadu Buhari was planning a self-succession bid, the party had said it would shock the opposition by producing a consensus candidate.
“After our (APC) congresses and the National Convention, we will shock them (PDP) by bringing a consensus and an agreeable candidate that will fly the flag of the party come 2023. APC has no 3rd term agenda like PDP,” it had noted.
However, a statement by the Secretary of the party’s Caretaker Extra-Ordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Senator John James Akpanudoedehe on Thursday in Abuja, said its earlier position was twisted.
He explained, “Our statement is simple. President Buhari has no third-term ambition, a position he (Buhari) has personally reiterated.
“In adherence with internal democracy, when the time comes to elect the APC 2023 presidential flag bearer and other party candidates, the process will be in full compliance with the provisions of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended), the APC Constitution and the approved party guidelines for the nomination of candidates.
“For clarity, the APC constitution provides that party candidates in all elections emerge through democratically conducted primary elections or where possible, consensus.
“The misleading interpretations given the earlier statement, particularly conspiracies aimed at senior party leaders and their perceived presidential ambitions are unnecessary and misplaced.
“The APC leadership will not impose any candidates in the lead-up to Congresses, National Convention, and the 2023 General Elections.”
