APC waives screening for Tinubu ahead of 2027 Presidential race

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially waived the screening requirements for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the party’s forthcoming presidential primary election, effectively clearing him to participate without appearing before a screening committee.

The decision was reached during the 188th meeting of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) held on Wednesday in Abuja.

In a statement issued by APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party said the waiver was granted in line with the powers vested in the NWC under Article 13.4 (xiii) and (xiv) of the APC Constitution.

According to the party, the constitutional provisions empower the NWC to organise and supervise party primaries as well as grant waivers in special circumstances where necessary in the interest of the party.

The APC explained that Tinubu’s exemption from the screening process was based on his status as the incumbent President and leader of the ruling party, noting that he had already undergone screening and clearance ahead of the 2022 presidential primaries.

The party described any fresh appearance before a screening panel as unnecessary and redundant.

“The National Working Committee resolved to waive, and has waived, screening requirements for His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and deemed him as duly screened in accordance with the Constitution of the Party for the purpose of participation in the upcoming primary elections,” the statement read.

The APC further stated that Tinubu had continued to enjoy overwhelming endorsements and votes of confidence from major stakeholders within the party.

These, according to the party, include the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), members and leadership of the National Assembly, as well as other critical organs of the APC.

The ruling party recalled that Tinubu also received strong backing during the APC National Summit held on May 22, 2025, alongside endorsements at other statutory meetings and gatherings of the party.