According to a report by The Punch on Thursday, May 7, 2026, former House of Representatives member Nicholas Ossai has expressed support for the adoption of direct primaries by the All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the system as a stronger reflection of participatory democracy.
Ossai made the remarks in Abuja shortly after submitting his nomination forms to contest for the Ndokwa East/Ndokwa West/Ukwuani Federal Constituency seat in Delta State under the platform of the APC.
The former lawmaker explained that direct primaries would give ordinary party members a greater role in selecting candidates and strengthen internal democracy within the ruling party.
He noted that the APC leadership’s decision to embrace the process would encourage broader participation among grassroots members while reducing excessive control by political elites.
“I told you I was going to bring PDP down, because the structure and number of PDP are broken,” Ossai said.
He also stated that his decision to seek a return to the House of Representatives was driven by his desire to continue addressing the developmental needs of his constituency through legislative intervention and constituency projects.
Ossai further argued that his years of experience in parliament, including his previous roles as Chairman of the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges and Chairman of the Committee on Treaties and Agreements, had equipped him with practical knowledge in oversight and accountability.
The former legislator added that he intends to use the APC platform to attract more development to his constituency and strengthen representation for the people.
While backing direct primaries, Ossai also acknowledged that consensus arrangements could still play a role in certain political situations where party members agree on a common candidate.
The APC’s endorsement of direct primaries has continued to generate debate within Nigeria’s political space, with supporters arguing that the system promotes inclusiveness and grassroots participation, while critics have raised concerns over logistics and possible manipulation during large-scale exercises….See More
Leave a Reply