In a renewed push for quality leadership and institutional integrity, the National Patriots have called for a comprehensive overhaul of the screening process for political aspirants across Nigeria’s democratic system, with particular emphasis on the Senate.

In a statement issued by Dr. G. Fraser, a leader of the group, following an independent assessment of emerging aspirants, the National Patriots expressed concern over what it described as declining standards among individuals seeking elective office.

The group stressed that positions such as that of a senator require more than political ambition, noting that aspirants must demonstrate intellectual capacity, sound education, proven integrity, and a verifiable track record of service.

“The Senate remains one of the most critical institutions in Nigeria’s democracy. It is the engine room of legislative balance and national direction. It must not be reduced to a platform for political compensation or transactional loyalty,” the statement read.

The advocacy group revealed that it has undertaken an independent screening and profiling exercise aimed at supporting political parties with objective recommendations on aspirants.

It proposed a formal collaboration with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to institutionalise a more rigorous, transparent, and merit-based evaluation framework.

While acknowledging that political parties currently operate internal screening mechanisms, the National Patriots noted that such processes are often subjective, inconsistent, and vulnerable to manipulation.

The group argued that introducing an independent, professional layer of assessment at the aspirant stage would significantly improve the quality of candidates presented to the electorate.

Citing a recent incident at the APC National Convention 2026 in Abuja, the group raised alarm over what it described as “a troubling example of systemic failure,” where an individual—reportedly a contractor with no legislative background or educational qualifications—presented himself as a “Distinguished Senator” on campaign materials.

According to the group, such individuals, driven by financial capacity rather than merit, pose a serious risk to democratic credibility and governance outcomes.

“This trend must be decisively addressed,” the statement continued. “Nigeria cannot afford a legislative system populated by individuals who lack the competence to interpret laws, engage in informed debate, or effectively represent their constituents.”

The National Patriots also highlighted the profile of Dr. Mohammed Musa Zango, a senatorial aspirant for Kano Central. He was described as a highly educated professional with over two decades of sustained humanitarian impact through his foundation. Dr. Zango was recently endorsed by the group following a successful screening process and was recognised for excellence in service, capacity, and community development.

The group urged the new leadership of the APC to take decisive steps in reforming its aspirant screening framework, ensuring that only candidates with proven competence, integrity, and a strong orientation toward public service emerge.

Furthermore, it recommended that in cases where consensus candidacy is being considered, a prior screening and profiling process should be conducted to identify and shortlist only qualified individuals before any political agreements are finalised.