How consensus cuts APC’s revenue from forms sales 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) raked in less than N200 million from the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms to aspirants, prior to its national convention held at the weekend in Abuja.

Top sources told our correspondent in Abuja that this followed the party’s adoption of the consensus option for the selection of its National Working Committee (NWC) and other national officers.

Analysts say the party missed an opportunity to boost revenue, as greater competition among senior members would have driven up sales of nomination forms.

Others, however, argued that the consensus arrangement simplified the process and reduced internal tensions.

BusinessDay reports that the party’s adjusted schedule, released by the National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu, showed that the nomination form for national chairmanship was pegged at N10 million, while expression of interest forms for NWC positions cost N100,000 each.

Fees for Deputy National Chairmen (North and South) and National Secretary were set at N7.5 million, while other national offices attracted N5 million per aspirant.

Party officials disclosed that concessions were granted to some aspirants, including a person with disability and two women, who paid 50% of the nomination fee.

Factoring in these discounts and other adjustments, sources said the total revenue from the sale of forms was below N160 million.

BusinessDay reports that several key positions drew little competition. Nentawe Yilwatda was the sole aspirant for national chairmanship, Bukar Dalori ran unopposed as deputy national chairman (North), and Ajibola Bashiru emerged unopposed as national secretary.

The deputy national chairman (South) was contested by Emma Eneukwu and Ben Nwoye, while the financial secretary race featured Bashir Gumel and Haruna Ginsau.

In total, 30 aspirants participated, according to the screening committee, reflecting limited contestation for several strategic offices.

BusinessDay, however, reports that two national ex-officio members, Hon. Basil Ejidike (Anambra) and Hon. Bunmi Orilowo (Ekiti), also obtained forms for the exercise.