Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has defended the conduct of the recent APC primary in the state, dismissing protests and complaints from some aspirants as acts of political inexperience. The governor said disagreements after party primaries were common in democratic systems but should not undermine party stability or electoral preparations.
Fintiri made the remarks while reacting to complaints raised by some aggrieved aspirants and party members following the All Progressives Congress, APC, primary elections in Adamawa State. Several protests had emerged after the exercise, with some participants alleging irregularities in the selection process.
According to the governor, political contests naturally produce winners and losers, adding that experienced politicians should understand the realities of internal party democracy. He stated that protests after the primary reflected disappointment among some aspirants rather than evidence of systemic failure.
Fintiri said: “Politics is not for people who cannot manage defeat. Every election must produce a winner and those protesting are showing political inexperience.”
The governor urged party stakeholders and supporters to remain calm and avoid actions capable of escalating political tensions within the state. He stressed the need for political maturity and reconciliation after internal party contests.
The APC primary formed part of broader nomination processes taking place across Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political parties in several states have recently conducted primaries for legislative and executive positions, with some contests generating internal disputes and appeals.
In Adamawa State, reports indicated that some party members expressed dissatisfaction over delegate selection, voting procedures, and final outcomes announced during the primary process. However, party officials maintained that the exercise followed established guidelines and electoral procedures.
Political analysts note that internal disagreements often emerge after party primaries because of competition among aspirants seeking elective positions. They also observe that unresolved disputes sometimes affect party cohesion and campaign preparations ahead of general elections.
Fintiri further stated that political parties must strengthen internal conflict resolution mechanisms to maintain unity after primary elections. He added that democratic institutions depend on acceptance of outcomes and adherence to party processes.
The governor also warned against inflammatory rhetoric capable of increasing divisions among party supporters. According to him, disagreements should be addressed through dialogue, party structures, and lawful channels rather than public confrontation.
The comments come amid rising political activity nationwide as parties prepare for future elections through consultations, primaries, and coalition discussions. Observers expect additional negotiations and reconciliation meetings within affected states following the completion of nomination exercises.
The outcome of the Adamawa APC primary is expected to influence political alignments and campaign strategies within the state as parties intensify preparations ahead of the next election cycle.
