By Lanre Oloyede
As preparations intensify for its forthcoming National Convention, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has assured aspirants contesting for national offices of a transparent and impartial screening process.
The party’s Screening Committee, inaugurated in Abuja on Monday, pledged to uphold fairness, equity, and strict adherence to laid-down rules in carrying out its assignment.
Speaking at the inauguration, Chairman of the panel and Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, stressed that the exercise would be conducted in line with the party’s constitution and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act.
He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to due process, noting that all aspirants would be treated equally without bias or undue influence.
Providing insight into the screening arrangement, Deputy Secretary of the committee and former Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shuaibu, revealed that about 30 aspirants are expected to undergo screening for various positions.
He explained that, to ensure efficiency within the limited timeframe, the National Working Committee positions have been categorised into three groups, each assigned to specific members of the panel.
According to him, the structure was designed to guarantee a smooth and timely exercise, given that the entire screening process is scheduled to be completed within a single day.
Addressing concerns about possible partiality, Oyebanji reiterated the panel’s resolve to remain neutral and transparent throughout the exercise, assuring aspirants that the process would strictly follow established guidelines.
Also speaking, the committee’s co-chairman and Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, described the screening as a crucial measure of the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
He noted that the responsibility of the committee extends beyond party interests, emphasizing its importance to Nigeria’s broader democratic stability.
Ododo expressed confidence in the calibre of members on the panel, including experienced political figures, stating that their decisions would have lasting implications for the party’s future.
With the National Convention slated for the weekend, the committee is expected to operate within a tight schedule to clear aspirants for key leadership positions, reinforcing the party’s resolve to present a united front ahead of the exercise.
