Political tension is building within the All Progressives Congress in Bayelsa State as stakeholders from the Ogbolomabiri axis of Nembe Local Government Area intensify calls for the zoning of the Brass/Nembe Federal Constituency House of Representatives ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
At a consultative meeting held in Nembe, leaders, youth groups, and community influencers from Ogbolomabiri insisted that equity demands the APC ticket be ceded to their axis, citing what they described as a long-standing imbalance in political representation.
Stakeholders argued that since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, representation for the Brass/Nembe Federal Constituency has consistently emerged from the Nembe-Bassambiri bloc, leaving Ogbolomabiri, identified as Nembe Constituency I, without representation at the House of Representatives.
They maintained that this pattern of exclusion has persisted for more than two decades and warned that continued marginalisation could undermine unity and political stability within the constituency.
Drawing comparisons with the Bayelsa East Senatorial District, stakeholders noted that zoning among local government areas such as Ogbia, Nembe, and Brass has largely been respected, contributing to balance and inclusiveness. They called for a similar approach within the federal constituency to ensure fairness.
The group stressed that zoning alone is not sufficient, insisting that any candidate from Ogbolomabiri must also demonstrate competence, credibility, and a clear record of service.
Concerns were also raised over the possibility of imposing unpopular aspirants. Stakeholders warned that recycling candidates who have previously held public office without earning public trust could weaken the APC’s chances at the polls.
They further hinted at potential legal complications, noting that some aspirants are yet to resign from political appointments as required by law, a situation that could trigger post-primary disputes if not addressed.
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Observers say the unfolding development presents a critical test for the APC’s internal democracy and its ability to manage competing interests ahead of the primaries.
Stakeholders concluded that adopting a widely accepted candidate from Ogbolomabiri would not only correct historical imbalances but also strengthen the party’s electoral prospects in the Brass/Nembe Federal Constituency.
As consultations continue, attention is now focused on the decisions of party leaders in the coming weeks, which are expected to shape the APC’s strategy and performance in the 2027 elections.
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