Several aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Katsina State have rejected the party’s consensus arrangement for the 2027 elections, opting instead to purchase nomination forms in a push for primary contests.

The development follows the party’s decision to adopt consensus candidates for legislative positions, a process overseen by a committee led by former governor Aminu Masari, with regional coordinators across the state’s senatorial districts.

Reports indicate that at least six of the 15 House of Representatives members, one senator, and several State Assembly lawmakers were excluded from the consensus list, triggering dissatisfaction among party members and observers. Critics have accused the party and the Katsina State Government of favouring candidates from influential families.

Among those selected through the consensus process are Yusuf Buhari, son of former President Muhammadu Buhari; Muhammadu Daha, linked to the Emir of Daura; Abba Mangal, son of businessman Dahiru Mangal; and Mustapha Kanti, son of former senator Kanti Bello. Abdulaziz Yar’Adua was also retained as the party’s senatorial candidate.

Despite the arrangement, several aspirants have moved to challenge the outcome. A former Lagos State commissioner, Ahmad Kabir, confirmed purchasing a nomination form for the Katsina North senatorial seat, stating he was not consulted before the consensus decision was reached.

Similarly, political figure Dauda Rarara publicly criticised the process, backing his ally Yusuf Jika, who also obtained nomination forms after being overlooked. In another constituency, Auwal Daura—son of former State Security Service Director General Lawal Daura—insisted on contesting, arguing that consensus must be mutually agreed upon to be valid.

A sitting lawmaker representing Mani/Bindawa, Ahmad Yusuf, has also entered the race, with his aides confirming that supporters secured the nomination form on his behalf.

Supporters of the aggrieved aspirants maintain that in the absence of unanimous agreement, the party should proceed to primary elections in line with its rules.

The controversy highlights growing internal tensions within the Katsina APC as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.