ABUJA — Activities in Nigeria’s capital were thrown into disarray on Friday as the All Progressives Congress (APC) held its National Convention amid a heavy security presence that disrupted movement and drew widespread concern over the treatment of journalists.
Security operatives, including personnel from the police and the military, cordoned off major access roads leading to the Eagle Square, the venue of the convention, effectively restricting movement across key parts of the city. The restrictions forced many accredited journalists and attendees to trek long distances in a bid to gain entry.
Despite possessing valid accreditation tags, several journalists were reportedly denied access at multiple checkpoints. Some security operatives allegedly issued threats, warning that force could be used against individuals attempting to breach the cordon.
A number of reporters who eventually gained access to the venue sought temporary shelter at the Nasarawa State Pavilion. However, they were later driven out following verbal confrontations with party delegates, further complicating efforts to cover the event.
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The convention, held in Abuja, was largely organised under a consensus arrangement, with many aspirants screened and affirmed for positions within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). The approach ensured that most offices were filled without contest, in line with agreements reached by party stakeholders ahead of the gathering.
Among those cleared for key positions is Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who emerged as National Chairman. Other notable figures include Hon. Abubakar Dalori as Deputy National Chairman (North), and Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, who is set to retain his role as National Secretary.
Additional consensus candidates include Professor Abdulkarim Abubakar Kana (Deputy National Secretary), Mu’azu Bawa Rijau (National Vice Chairman, North Central), Barrister Muritala Aliyu Kankia (National Legal Adviser), Felix Morka (National Publicity Secretary), and Dayo Israel (National Youth Leader).
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However, not all positions were settled by consensus. The race for Deputy National Chairman (South) is being contested between Chief Emma Eneukwu and Hon. Ben Nwoye, while the contest for National Welfare Secretary pits Hon. Ignatius Nwapa against Hon. Nduka Anyanwu.
While party leaders sought to project unity and order through the consensus-driven process, the conduct of security operatives cast a shadow over the exercise. Concerns have since been raised about press freedom and transparency, as journalists struggled to effectively cover proceedings at one of the ruling party’s most significant gatherings.
The developments underscore ongoing tensions between security enforcement and media access at major political events, raising questions about the balance between maintaining order and safeguarding democratic principles.
