Zaki APC Members Reject LG Congress, Demand Nullification Over Alleged Violations

By Khalid Idris Doya 

Concerned members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zaki local government area of Bauchi State have called for the nullification of the recently conducted local government congress, describing it as unconstitutional and invalid due to alleged violations of established congress guidelines.

Speaking on behalf of the concerned members, Comrade Mustapha Dalailu Ktg urged state and national party leaders to intervene decisively to address what he described as growing internal irregularities within the party structure in Zaki.

Dalailu alleged that the APC in Zaki local government area has been grappling with serious internal challenges, which he said contributed significantly to the party's electoral defeats in the 2019 and 2023 general elections, saying that the local political dynamics are complex and require urgent attention.

He attributed the party's losses largely to a widening disconnect between party leadership and grassroots members.

"Our repeated electoral failures stem from the growing distance between party leaders and the grassroots electorate. Critical decisions affecting our political landscape are made behind closed doors, with a few leaders monopolizing power while neglecting those who directly engage with voters. This undemocratic approach is damaging to the party’s progress," he said.

Dalailu also expressed concern over what he described as the marginalisation of youths in the party's decision-making process.

"It is unrealistic to expect leaders in their 50s, 60s, or 70s to solely strategise and execute grassroots campaigns that resonate with younger voters. The exclusion of youthful energy and perspectives has deprived the party of innovative campaign strategies essential in today's political environment," he added.

Addressing the recent congress, Dalailu described the exercise as deeply flawed, alleging that ordinaryy members were neither consulted nor adequately represented. He claimed that the meeting was held at a private residence in Bauchi rather than at the party secretariat as stipulated in the guidelines.

He outlined three major reasons why the congress should be declared invalid: violation of congress guidelines, absence of key aspirants, and political imbalance.

According to him, the congress guidelines clearly state that such gatherings must be conducted at the party secretariat. However, decisions were allegedly taken at a stakeholder's residence, raising questions about the legitimacy of the process.

He further noted that none of the recognized chairmanship aspirants, including Mamuda Gwangwan, Alhaji Yahaya Tashena, and Alhaji Umaru Ktg, were present during the congress or the consensus process.

"This absence undermines the credibility of the so-called consensus reached," he stated.

Dalailu referenced Article 20 of the APC Constitution, which mandates that party officers at all levels must emerge through democratic elections. While Article 20(3) allows for consensus arrangements, he stressed that such consensus must be voluntary and agreed upon by all aspirants.

He also cited Article 9 of the constitution, which guarantees members the right to vote, to be voted for, and to enjoy fairness and equal treatment in party affairs.

"Any process that undermines these constitutional rights weakens the party and fuels internal conflict," he said.

The concerned members further raised issues of political imbalance, alleging that key leadership positions, including the chairmanship, local government party chairman, and state treasurer slots were concentrated within the Katagum district, sidelining other districts such as Sakwa, which they claim was left with a non-functional committee.

Dalailu maintained that many grassroots members believe the current local leadership has failed to effectively represent their interests or mobilise support for the party.

He called on party stakeholders to reflect on the consequences of sidelining members, particularly youths, and urged collective action to restore internal democracy and unity.

"We believe collective action can restore the integrity of our party. We call on members and citizens of Zaki Local Government to unite in ensuring that every voice is heard and respected. The future of our party depends on inclusiveness, respect for democratic processes, and adherence to our core values," he concluded.