Ruling Party Defends Digital Registration Exercise Amid Opposition Concerns
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly refuted accusations made by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) regarding its ongoing electronic membership registration exercise, insisting that participation is voluntary and driven by widespread public interest.
According to the ruling party, recent criticism from the opposition reflects growing concern over the increasing number of Nigerians embracing the registration initiative across the country.
APC Responds to Claims of Coercion
The controversy began after the ADC alleged that some public servants were facing pressure to enroll in the APC’s digital membership platform. The opposition party argued that any attempt to influence civil servants through economic or administrative means could raise concerns about constitutional rights and the independence of the public service.
The statement from the opposition was issued by Bolaji Abdullahi, who serves as the party’s National Publicity Secretary.
However, the APC has dismissed the allegations, maintaining that no evidence has been provided to support the claims.
Felix Morka Defends Registration Process
In a response issued on behalf of the ruling party, Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, described the accusations as unfounded and politically motivated.
He argued that the opposition’s concerns stem from the success of the registration exercise rather than any genuine issue with the process itself. According to him, Nigerians are willingly joining the party because they support its vision and policy direction.
Rising Participation Leads to Deadline Extension
One of the key points highlighted by the APC was the growing level of participation recorded since the digital membership registration commenced.
The party stated that the response from prospective members across different parts of the country exceeded expectations, prompting officials to extend the registration deadline from January 31 to February 8, 2026.
Party leaders believe the extension reflects sustained public enthusiasm rather than any form of intimidation.
APC Accuses Opposition of Spreading False Narratives
The ruling party further alleged that attempts were being made to undermine confidence in the registration exercise through misinformation.
According to the APC, reports circulating about membership materials and registration procedures were designed to create confusion and distract from what it described as the successful rollout of a modernized membership system.
The party insisted that negative campaigns would not affect the credibility of the initiative or diminish the level of engagement already achieved.
Digital Innovation at the Center of Membership Drive
Gossip News Now reports that the APC views the electronic registration platform as part of broader efforts to modernize internal party operations and improve participation among supporters nationwide.
Party officials argue that the use of digital tools will help create a more efficient and transparent membership database while encouraging greater involvement in political activities.
ADC and APC Continue Political Exchange
The latest disagreement highlights the ongoing rivalry between the APC and the ADC as both parties seek to strengthen their influence ahead of future political contests.
While the opposition maintains its concerns about the registration exercise, the ruling party remains firm in its position that Nigerians are joining voluntarily and in significant numbers.
Analysis: What the Dispute Reveals
The debate surrounding the APC’s membership registration campaign underscores how political parties increasingly view digital platforms as strategic tools for mobilization and engagement.
For the APC, strong participation figures can be presented as evidence of public confidence and organizational strength. For opposition parties such as the ADC, scrutiny of the process reflects concerns about fairness, transparency, and political competition.
As discussions continue, the success or otherwise of the registration exercise may become an important talking point in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Looking Ahead
Despite the exchange of accusations and counterclaims, the APC says its focus remains on expanding membership and enhancing political participation through technology-driven initiatives.
Whether the controversy fades or develops further, the debate has already drawn significant attention to the growing role of digital innovation in Nigeria’s party politics.
