The Imperative of Internal Democracy: Senator Bamidele’s Call for Transparent and Inclusive APC Primaries

In a robust defense of democratic principles within Nigeria’s ruling party, the Leader of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has issued a clarion call for strict adherence to transparency and due process in the conduct of All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries. His remarks, delivered on Monday in Abuja shortly after submitting his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, serve as a critical intervention in the ongoing debate about the integrity of candidate selection processes. Senator Bamidele specifically warned against what he termed “backdoor consensus” arrangements, arguing that such practices undermine the very fabric of internal democracy.

Understanding the Legal Framework: Consensus vs. Primaries

Senator Bamidele’s comments are grounded in the provisions of the Nigerian Electoral Act, which explicitly allows for three modes of candidate selection: direct primaries, indirect primaries, and consensus. However, he emphasized that the consensus option is not a loophole to bypass democratic participation. “Consensus is only valid when it is transparent, inclusive, and in line with the provisions of the law. It cannot be used as a shortcut to bypass democratic participation,” he stated.

This distinction is crucial. In practice, consensus is often misused by party elites to anoint candidates without broad consultation, effectively disenfranchising grassroots members. For example, in some constituencies, a consensus candidate is declared without any formal vote or even a meeting of party delegates, leading to resentment and legal challenges. Senator Bamidele’s warning serves as a reminder that the law requires consensus to be rooted in openness, consultation, and compliance with established party procedures.

The Role of Direct Primaries as a Safety Valve

Senator Bamidele further argued that where consensus fails or becomes controversial, the party must resort to direct primaries to ensure fairness. “There must be room for everyone who is qualified and interested to participate. Where disagreements arise, the Electoral Act already provides a clear path through direct primaries,” he added. Direct primaries, where all registered party members vote for their preferred candidate, are widely regarded as the most democratic method. They reduce the influence of party bosses and give ordinary members a direct say in who represents them.

However, direct primaries are not without challenges. They are logistically complex, expensive, and can be prone to violence if not properly managed. Despite these hurdles, Senator Bamidele’s insistence on this option as a fallback underscores his commitment to a process that is perceived as legitimate by all stakeholders.

The Risks of Exclusionary Consensus

Senator Bamidele noted that consensus arrangements have produced mixed results across constituencies. He warned that any process perceived as exclusionary could create internal divisions within the party. This is a prescient observation, given the history of political parties in Nigeria. When a consensus candidate is imposed without genuine consultation, it often leads to defections, legal battles, and a loss of voter confidence. For instance, in the 2019 elections, several APC candidates faced court challenges from aggrieved aspirants who claimed they were denied the opportunity to contest primaries.

To avoid such outcomes, Senator Bamidele stressed that consensus must be built on earned trust and proper procedures. “Where consensus works, it is because trust has been earned and processes were properly followed. It must never be imposed or manipulated,” he said. This is a lesson that applies not only to the APC but to all political parties in Nigeria.

Senator Bamidele’s Own Example: A Model of Stakeholder Engagement

Senator Bamidele cited his own candidacy in Ekiti Central Senatorial District as an example of how consensus can work effectively. He attributed his broad stakeholder support to consistent engagement and performance, noting that no other aspirant had obtained nomination forms in the district. This suggests that his consensus was not imposed but emerged organically from a process of consultation and recognition of his track record.

However, he cautioned against generalizing such outcomes. “At every level, our processes must be transparent, competitive where necessary, and fully compliant with the law. That is the only way to sustain confidence in our party and democracy,” he said. This is a critical nuance: what works in one district may not work in another, and party leaders must be sensitive to local dynamics.

Practical Implications for Party Stakeholders

Senator Bamidele’s remarks carry practical implications for party stakeholders at all levels. First, party leaders must ensure that any consensus arrangement is preceded by genuine consultation with ward and constituency executives, as well as with aspirants themselves. Second, where consensus is not possible, the party must be prepared to conduct direct primaries, even if it requires additional resources. Third, all processes must be documented and communicated transparently to avoid allegations of manipulation.

For aspirants, the message is clear: they must actively participate in ward and constituency-level activities to build the trust necessary for consensus. For party members, the call is to hold leaders accountable and demand that processes are followed.

Conclusion: Upholding Internal Democracy for Party Strength

Senator Bamidele reaffirmed that internal democracy remains critical to the strength of the APC and Nigeria’s democratic system. He urged party leaders to uphold fairness in all electoral processes and to avoid actions that could erode trust or create unnecessary tension ahead of the elections. “Unity within the APC must be built on fairness and adherence to rules,” he concluded.

In a political landscape often characterized by elite manipulation and voter apathy, Senator Bamidele’s words are a timely reminder that the health of a democracy depends on the integrity of its internal processes. By insisting on transparency, due process, and the primacy of the law, he has set a standard that all political actors should aspire to.

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