APC Clarifies Membership Dues Requirement for Ongoing Primary Elections

The ruling All Progressives Congress has clarified that registered party members do not need to present proof of payment of membership dues before participating in the ongoing primary elections across the country.

The clarification was issued on Saturday in Abuja by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, following reports and concerns from party members over alleged restrictions at some primary election venues.

In an official statement, the APC explained that every duly registered member of the party remains eligible to vote in the ongoing primaries, regardless of whether they present evidence of membership dues payment.

According to the party, the requirement to show proof of dues payment applied only to aspirants seeking elective positions and individuals who nominated them during the purchase and submission of nomination forms as well as the screening process.

The statement read:

“There is no requirement for Party members to show proof of payment of APC membership dues in order to vote in the ongoing Primary Elections. All duly registered members of the Party are entitled to participate in the exercise.”

The party also urged stakeholders, electoral officials, and members to ignore contrary directives capable of causing confusion or disenfranchising members during the exercise.

The APC stressed that the clarification became necessary to ensure smooth participation and avoid disruptions as primaries continue in several states ahead of future electoral contests.

The clarification comes at a critical time as the APC intensifies preparations for upcoming elections and internal party contests nationwide. Primary elections are a major process through which political parties select candidates for legislative, governorship, and other elective positions.

In recent days, there have been reports of disagreements and tensions in some APC state chapters over delegate eligibility, voting procedures, and internal party guidelines. Concerns over membership dues requirements had also sparked uncertainty among grassroots members attempting to participate in the process.

Political observers believe the APC’s latest statement is aimed at preventing voter exclusion within the party and reducing internal disputes that could affect the credibility of the primaries.

The ruling party has also repeatedly called for peaceful conduct during the exercises, warning against violence, intimidation, and actions capable of undermining party unity.

Nigeria’s political parties often face internal crises during primary elections, especially over candidate selection procedures and allegations of favoritism. Clear guidelines from party leadership are therefore considered important in maintaining order and confidence among members.

The APC’s clarification settles growing confusion surrounding membership dues and voting eligibility in the ongoing primaries. By confirming that all registered members can vote without presenting proof of dues payment, the party hopes to encourage broader participation and ensure a smoother electoral process internally.

As primary elections continue across different states, attention will remain on how political parties manage internal democracy, transparency, and fairness ahead of future national elections.