Falana Criticises APC Consensus Primaries, Warns of Risks to Nigeria’s Democracy

 

ABUJA, Nigeria – Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and human rights lawyer Femi Falana has criticised the use of consensus primaries by the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that the practice could undermine democratic values if not conducted transparently and in accordance with the law.

Falana argued that the increasing reliance on consensus arrangements in the party's candidate selection process raises concerns about internal democracy and the ability of party members to freely choose their preferred candidates.

Describing the trend as a move toward "plutocracy"—a system in which wealth and influence determine political outcomes—Falana cautioned that political parties must avoid practices that could erode public confidence in Nigeria's democratic institutions.

According to him, democracy thrives on transparency, fairness, and active participation, stressing that every eligible party member should have an equal opportunity to contest elective positions without undue influence or exclusion.

The senior lawyer urged political parties to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act and their respective constitutions when conducting primary elections. He maintained that any consensus arrangement should be genuinely voluntary and enjoy the support of all aspirants involved.

Falana also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that political parties comply with established electoral guidelines to promote credible and inclusive electoral processes.

His remarks come as political parties continue preparations for forthcoming elections, with the mode of selecting candidates remaining a subject of debate among party members, civil society groups, and political observers.

Analysts believe the discussion surrounding consensus primaries reflects broader concerns about internal party democracy and the need to strengthen Nigeria's electoral system through greater transparency, accountability, and equal participation for all aspirants.