By Inyali Peter
In an analysis a few days ago, I urged the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC in Cross River State to begin early conversations around consensus-building, rather than allowing aspirants to embark on widespread consultations only to be asked to step down at the final hour. History has shown that such last-minute decisions breed resentment, waste resources, and weaken party cohesion.
The more strategic approach is to empower stakeholders across all levels; local government, state constituencies, federal constituencies, and senatorial districts to engage early, align interests, and reflect the realities of local power dynamics. These consultations, if properly structured, should culminate in broader state-level stakeholder agreements that carry legitimacy and buy-in.
However, indications from the field suggest a different trajectory. Aspirants are being encouraged to consult widely, which, while commendable as a democratic exercise, appears disconnected from any structured negotiation process. There are strong signals that the party may ultimately adopt a consensus model to avoid a post-primary crisis.
The South West states are taking the lead on this consensus-building. In five of the six states preparing for the 2027 governorship elections, consensus arrangements are reportedly already taking shape for governorship candidates. These outcomes are not products of imposition but of deliberate negotiations, concessions, and stakeholder alignment. Aspirants begin consultations only after broad agreements are reached, lending credibility to the process and minimising friction and cost.
Cross River State would do well to draw lessons from this model. Encouraging aspirants to expend resources without clarity, only to later impose consensus, whether overtly or through compromised processes would be a recipe for trouble. Such an outcome can even drive aggrieved members to defect or engage in anti-party activities during the elections.
With the proposed party’s timetable indicating that primaries will conclude by May 22, time is no longer a luxury. The window for meaningful engagement is narrowing. Early negotiations would not only reduce unnecessary expenditure but also enhance unity and ensure that consensus, if adopted, is both genuine and broadly accepted.
Undoubtedly, the strength of any political party lies not just in its electoral victories, but in the fairness and foresight of its internal processes. As tensions rise and ambitions peak, the APC must choose between expediency and strategy. The South-West has shown that consensus, when properly managed, can strengthen rather than divide. Cross River should take note because, as the saying goes, a stitch in time saves nine.
