Gombe's APC chapter is standing firm on its consensus method for picking candidates. The party unveiled its chosen nominees on Sunday for governor, National Assembly, and state legislature races.
Not everyone was happy with the results. Several prominent aspirants rejected the arrangement outright.
Senator Danjuma Goje wanted another term in Gombe Central. Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro sought Gombe South's seat instead.
Prof Isa Ali Pantami and Saidu Ahmed Alkali both pursued the governorship. None of them made the final list.
On Monday, APC spokesperson Moses Kyari issued a lengthy defense of the decision. He said consensus brings the party together and prevents costly battles.
Kyari noted the party's constitution permits consensus selections. The leadership consulted widely before deciding, he told reporters.
Party elders met with the state working committee and executive committee, according to him. All aspirants received invitations to participate in discussions.
"Some of those now complaining deliberately stayed away," Kyari pointed out. He found it odd they'd question results they refused to help shape.
He stressed the party welcomed all aspirants during the process. Those with concerns were urged to voice them then.
But Kyari left a door open for the dissidents. Aspirants unhappy with consensus can contest through direct primaries instead.
"Any aspirant disagreeing with consensus should enter the direct primary elections," he said. Constitutional provisions allow this route, he assured them.
Direct primaries would give everyone equal chances to win, Kyari added. Nobody would face unfair disadvantages in that format.
He appealed for calm among party members and their backers. Statements or actions threatening unity must stop immediately.
Party officials warned against moves that could damage electoral prospects. They want all factions focused on winning general elections.
Kyari's statement tried to soften the blow for rejected aspirants. It acknowledged their concerns while defending the leadership's approach.
"We wish to correct misinformation," he said in closing remarks. The party remains open to hearing from anyone with grievances.
Whether the olive branch convinces Goje, Yaro, Pantami, and Alkali remains unclear. Their next moves could reshape Gombe politics heading toward elections.
