APC Convention: Dagugu Declares for South-South Vice Chair, Alleges Form Sale Irregularities

By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters

A leading aspirant for the South-South National Vice Chairmanship of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Fubara Dagugu has formally declared his ambition ahead of the party’s forthcoming national convention, while raising concerns over alleged irregularities in the nomination process.

Addressing journalists during a press briefing in Abuja, Dagugu said his decision to contest for the zonal position followed extensive consultations with party stakeholders, allies, and supporters across the country.

“I have consulted widely… and we have finally agreed that I will settle for the office of the Zonal Vice Chairman, South-South. I strongly believe that this is God’s time,” he stated.

The aspirant, who traced his political journey within the party to over a decade, recounted previous unsuccessful attempts at national positions, including the National Youth Leader role, attributing his persistence to resilience and commitment to party ideals.

“I have run for several offices… and I believe tough times never last, but tough people do. I have always accepted outcomes in good faith and continued to work for the party,” Dagugu said.

He emphasized his loyalty to the ruling party and President Bola Tinubu, pledging to mobilize support for the administration’s re-election bid in 2027 if elected.

“I understand the ideology of this party, and I will ensure that we advance it and also work to return President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027,” he added.

Dagugu, however, used the briefing to allege procedural challenges encountered during the purchase of his nomination form, revealing that he paid a total of N5.1 million as required fees.

“They requested that I pay N5 million for nomination and N100,000 extra, making N5.1 million, which I paid. I was issued a receipt in line with the rules,” he explained.

Despite fulfilling the financial requirements, the aspirant claimed he was unable to obtain the nomination form as expected, raising concerns about the transparency and consistency of the process.

“When I got there, they told me there was no form available, even after payment. This is what we are facing,” he said.

He noted that he had mobilized supporters from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, underscoring his national appeal and commitment to the party’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

Dagugu also reflected on internal party zoning arrangements, acknowledging past disagreements but stating his alignment with the current structure guiding the convention.

The APC is expected to hold its national convention in the coming weeks, with several key positions, including zonal leadership roles, up for contest as the party prepares for the 2027 general elections.