Abuja, Nigeria – The revelations by Senator Ajibola Basiru regarding the discrepancy in the All Progressives Congress (APC) membership figures have significant implications for the party’s internal dynamics and credibility. Here are some key thoughts and considerations on this issue:
Discrepancy in Membership Figures
- Inflated Membership Claims: The contrast between the claimed 45 million members and the less than 10 million votes garnered by President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 elections raises questions about the accuracy of the party’s membership data. This discrepancy suggests that the previously reported figures were likely inflated.
- Impact on Credibility: Such inconsistencies can undermine the credibility of the party both internally and externally. Members and the public might question the reliability of other data and claims made by the party.
Reflection and Realignment
- Self-Examination: Senator Basiru’s reference to Amilcar Cabral’s doctrine highlights the importance of honesty and self-reflection. Acknowledging past mistakes is a crucial step towards genuine reform and improvement within the party.
- Weaponization of the Register: The admission that the party register was used as a tool for internal conflicts points to deeper issues of factionalism and corruption within the APC. Addressing these root causes is essential for restoring trust and unity.
Digitalized and Biometric-Based Registration
- Modernizing the Registration System: The move towards a digitalized and biometric-based registration system linked with the National Identification Number (NIN) represents a significant shift towards transparency and accuracy. This system can help prevent future discrepancies and ensure a more reliable membership database.
- Implementation Challenges: While the initiative is commendable, its success will depend on effective implementation. Ensuring widespread participation, data accuracy, and integration with the NIN system will be critical challenges to address.
Implications for Future Elections and Appointments
- Eligibility Criteria: The new system’s role in determining eligibility for elections and appointments underscores its importance. Ensuring that only genuinely registered members can contest elections or secure appointments could lead to a more merit-based and accountable party structure.
- Enhanced Planning and Decision-Making: A reliable membership register can enhance the party’s ability to plan, make informed decisions, and project future strategies. It can also improve the party’s electoral strategies by providing accurate data on its support base.
The acknowledgment of inflated membership figures by Senator Basiru and the APC’s commitment to a more transparent registration process reflect a critical moment of introspection and potential reform. Successfully implementing the digitalized registration system and addressing underlying issues of factionalism and corruption will be crucial for the APC to regain credibility and strengthen its organizational integrity.