2027: APGA unveils option A4, to curb rigging, vote-buying

The All Progressives Grand Alliance has announced the adoption of the Option A4 voting system for its primaries ahead of the 2027 elections, signalling a major push for internal reforms aimed at curbing “mercenary politics” and entrenching transparency.

Speaking at the South-East Zonal Stakeholders’ Meeting held at the International Convention Centre, Awka on Saturday, Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, said the system would eliminate rigging, reduce vote-buying, and promote openness in the party’s electoral process.

Soludo, who issued a stern warning to party leaders and members, stressed that the forthcoming primaries would not be “business as usual,” as he unveiled strict guidelines to govern the exercise.

“I know that most of you may not be happy with this new strategy because you see politics and party membership as business,” he said. “But what we are doing is to cut wastefulness and ensure the health and credibility of our party.”

He explained that under the Option A4 system, aspirants would clearly see their level of support through physical alignment, discouraging deceptive practices associated with secret ballots.

“It is not the one where you pay people and they claim to support you, only to vote otherwise. We want to curb that,” he added.

The governor also warned against aspirants pursuing multiple political offices simultaneously, insisting that such practices undermine governance and party discipline.

“If you want to run for governor, make up your mind. We will not tolerate people holding one office while eyeing another,” he said, noting that divided ambition often leads to poor performance in public office.

Soludo further declared that aspirants are prohibited from visiting members of the state executive in their homes for inducement, stressing that all engagements must take place at designated party offices.

Earlier, the National Chairman of APGA, Sly Ezeokenwa, reinforced the reform agenda, unveiling a comprehensive code of conduct aligned with the governor’s directives.

Ezeokenwa said the party’s modernisation drive, in line with Nigeria’s Electoral Act, would include digital registration, direct primaries, adoption of Option A4, and the abolition of bundled nomination forms.

“The party has officially adopted Option A4 to ensure maximum visibility and fairness. Aspirants must now first obtain an Expression of Interest form and pass screening before purchasing the nomination form,” he said.

He added that party officials intending to support any aspirant must resign their positions to maintain neutrality.

In his remarks, the State Chairman, Ifeatu Obiokoye, described the meeting as unprecedented and commended stakeholders for their unity.

Also speaking, the South-East National Vice Chairman, Augustine Ehiemere, characterised APGA as the “beautiful bride” of Nigerian politics and a key symbol of South-East identity.