Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, who chairs the Aspirant Screening Sub-Committee of the 2026 All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention, has assured all aspirants to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) of a fair, transparent, and credible screening process.
Oyebanji gave the assurance on Monday during the committee’s inaugural meeting in Abuja, ahead of the screening exercise scheduled for Tuesday.
“We are going to be transparent, fair, and just to all aspirants. They are party members, and the party has clear guidelines that will guide our actions. We will operate strictly in accordance with the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act. They have nothing to fear,” he said.
Also speaking, the Kogi State Governor and co-chairman of the sub-committee, Usman Ododo, expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to deliver on its mandate, noting that members were carefully selected based on merit and trust.
Providing insight into the committee’s operations, former Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, explained that members have been divided into three teams to conduct the screening.
Shaibu disclosed that although the committee has 118 members, only about 30 aspirants will be screened, meaning many members will not be directly involved in the exercise, which is slated to hold at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
He also commended the committee’s leadership for their commitment and support, revealing that logistics such as printing of materials and accommodation had been arranged despite the committee not yet receiving official mobilization from the party.
Shaibu urged members to approach their assignment with utmost seriousness, describing the committee as critical to the success of the convention.
“Without candidates, there will be no convention,” he noted.
In his goodwill message, former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, charged the committee to remain diligent, stressing that the success of the exercise would significantly influence the party’s performance in the 2027 general elections.
“We must not be complacent. Nigerians are facing challenges, and we must work hard to sustain their support and confidence in the party and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Nnamani said.
Other dignitaries present at the inauguration included former Bauchi State Governor, Isa Yuguda; former Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade; Senator Osita Izunaso; and Senator Kabiru Gaya, among others.
