National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has said the ongoing sale of expression of interest and nomination forms reflects the party’s openness and internal democracy.

Yilwatda spoke on Wednesday after inspecting the exercise at the Abuja Continental Hotel, noting that aspirants are freely purchasing forms to contest various positions, including those currently held by sitting governors, senators, and even the president, Bola Tinubu.

“Individuals are picking forms to contest at all levels, including the presidency. This demonstrates the level of internal democracy within our party. The participation we are seeing indicates that the APC remains widely accepted,” he said.

He added that the process has been smooth, with no reported complaints from participants. According to him, banks, party officials, and administrative units involved in the exercise have carried out their duties efficiently.

“The banks are processing payments, our staff are handling clearances, and receipts are being issued without issues. We have also monitored feedback channels, including social media, and have not observed any complaints,” he said.

Yilwatda described the exercise as evidence of the party’s organisational capacity, expressing confidence that subsequent stages, including the nomination process, would proceed seamlessly.

He emphasised that broad participation aligns with the APC’s founding principles, particularly inclusion.

“Inclusion is central to our party, and what we are witnessing here reflects that commitment,” he said.

On whether the deadline for purchasing forms would be extended, the APC chairman said no decision had been taken, noting that any such move would follow due process and require approval by the party’s National Working Committee.

“For now, there is no extension. Any decision on that will be made by the appropriate party organ,” he added.