APC Speaks On Zoning, Mode Of Primaries And Why Presidential Form Goes For N100m

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has said it is yet to make any decision concerning the zoning of positions ahead of the 2023 general elections.

The party’s position was made known by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, during an interview with Channels Television on Wednesday.

Morka also dismissed reports that the ruling party has settled for the indirect primary mode, hours after Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State had hinted such.

Asked to clarify the mode of primaries, Felix said: “That was not decided today”.

On the issue of zoning, he said: “No. That also was not in conversation today. But in the coming days, I’m sure the party will make a decision, now that the NWC has the authority to decide on those questions”.

On the amount of various forms ahead of the party’s primary, Morka rejected claims that the APC is only for the rich.

Recall that the ruling party on Wednesday announced that the it’s forms for Presidential ticket will be sold at N100 million, governorship N50 million; Senate, N20 million; House of Representatives, N10 million and State Houses of Assembly, N2 million.

Following the announcement, Nigerians had condemned the party for being insensitive to the economic situation of the country.

Reacting, Morka said, “What is the current situation in the country? We still live in a country where there are people who make legitimate money.”

And on whether the party is for the rich, he said, “The party is not for the rich. I just told you that for instance, any woman who wants to run for the office of the President is not paying the full amount. The youths as well.”

Asked who advised the party on the price tags, he said, “The party advised the party. The party thinks that…and made the decision that the value put on these forms are justified.”

Speaking further, the ruling party’s mouthpiece explained, “Don’t forget that some of the most special groups of citizens were granted high considerations. Either delivering the nomination forms for free in the case of women and people living with disabilities.

“But youths who are within 25 to 50 also have the advantage of a 50 percent discount for all positions, even the office of the President. We receive that nomination form you talk about at 50%. So, they’ll pay the expression of interest, plus 50 percent of the N70m.”