The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State on Monday conducted its ward congresses across all 226 wards spanning the 21 local government areas of the state, in what party leaders described as a resounding display of unity, organization, and grassroots strength.
From the early hours of the day, party members trooped out in large numbers to participate in the exercise, which was largely characterized by orderliness and enthusiasm. The congresses, aimed at electing or affirming ward executives, were conducted through a consensus arrangement, a method party officials say helped to avoid disputes and foster harmony among stakeholders.
Speaking to journalists at the headquarters of Girei Local Government Area, the chairman of the ward and local government congresses committee, Ephraim Agber, praised party members for their discipline and commitment throughout the process.
Agber, visibly pleased with the turnout and conduct of the exercise, described the congresses as one of the most successful political gatherings the state has witnessed in recent times. According to him, the peaceful atmosphere and widespread acceptance of consensus candidates reflect the growing maturity within the party’s ranks.
“I am happy with my committee members to see one of the best congresses taking place in Adamawa State,” he said. “Everywhere we go to monitor the congresses, you see people jubilating for the outcome.”
Across various wards, scenes of celebration unfolded as members expressed satisfaction with the selections made. Party loyalists, clad in APC colors, gathered in groups—some singing, others chanting slogans—demonstrating a shared belief in the direction of the party ahead of future elections.
Agber noted that the success of the congresses sends a strong political message, not just within Adamawa but beyond. He expressed confidence that the unity displayed at the grassroots level would translate into electoral victories, particularly in the presidential race.
“The outcome of these congresses has shown clearly that our party is strong and united,” he added. “We are confident that not only will we win the presidential election, but there will be no room for any other party to secure a seat in Adamawa State.”
Political observers, however, view such confidence as both a strength and a test. While the consensus approach has reduced internal friction, some analysts argue that it may also sideline dissenting voices within the party.
Nonetheless, for many APC members in Adamawa, the priority remains cohesion as the political season gradually intensifies.
The ward congresses represent a critical phase in the party’s internal democratic process, laying the foundation for subsequent local government, state, and national congresses. These structures are expected to play key roles in mobilization, campaign coordination, and candidate selection.
For residents of Adamawa, the peaceful conduct of the exercise is also significant in a broader context. The state, like many others in Nigeria, has experienced its share of political tensions in the past. Monday’s orderly proceedings offered a contrast, one that many hope will define future political engagements.
As the sun set over communities across the state, the echoes of celebration lingered, signaling not just the conclusion of a political exercise, but the beginning of renewed ambitions for the ruling party.
Whether the optimism expressed by party leaders will translate into electoral dominance remains to be seen. But for now, the APC in Adamawa is projecting confidence rooted in unity, reinforced by structure, and energized by a base that believes victory is within reach.
