APC Primaries Trigger Major Political Upsets as Several Big Names Lose Return Tickets Ahead of 2027

The ongoing APC primaries across Nigeria have triggered significant political shakeups as several high-profile politicians reportedly failed to secure return tickets ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Among the most talked-about contests was the Delta North senatorial primary, where former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa reportedly defeated Senator Ned Nwoko in a result that has generated widespread reactions across political circles. 

In Delta Central, former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege was also reported to have lost the APC senatorial ticket to incumbent Senator Ede Dafinone in one of the biggest upsets of the primaries. 

The wave of defeats also extended to the House of Representatives, where several serving lawmakers reportedly failed to secure return tickets during APC primary elections conducted across different states. 

Among those affected were House Majority Leader Julius Ihonvbere, Eseosa Iyawe, Miriam Onuoha, Harrison Nwadike, Matthew Nwogu, and Emeka Martins Chinedu, particularly in Edo and Imo States where major internal political realignments were reported. 

However, conflicting reports later emerged regarding the outcome involving Julius Ihonvbere, as his camp rejected claims of defeat and insisted he won the primary election in Owan Federal Constituency. 

Political observers say the primaries reflect growing internal competition within the APC as incumbents, former governors, serving lawmakers, and emerging political figures battle for relevance ahead of 2027.

Analysts also note that zoning arrangements, grassroots influence, internal party alliances, and shifting political loyalties played major roles in many of the outcomes recorded across states.

The primaries have continued to generate intense reactions nationwide, with some aspirants reportedly preparing legal challenges while party stakeholders work to manage post-primary tensions and maintain internal unity ahead of the general elections.