The ongoing registration and revalidation of membership exercise of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has again been extended by another three weeks.

This was disclosed on Thursday via a statement signed by the secretary of APC’s national caretaker committee, Senator John Akpanudoedehe.

The party in the statement said: “The Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) under the leadership of His Excellency, Hon. Mai Mala Buni had done everything possible to keep to the earlier timeline, however it has become imperative to extend the duration of this very important party activity.

“Consequently, the CECPC has approved the recommendation of the National Committee for the Membership Registration, Revalidation and Update to extend the duration of the exercise for three weeks.”

The exercise which began February 9 was last extended to March 31.

The statement further disclosed the audit of the reports by national and state committees for the excercise, as well as its Situation Room show that: “Most states for varied reasons, started late, and require additional time to conclude the exercise; an avalanche of applications from critical stakeholders (including all States Caretaker Chairmen) for an extension of time to capture Nigerians who are still desirous of joining the fold of the progressives.”

The Buni-led caretaker committee has been in place since June 2020, after the ouster of former National Chairman Adams Oshiomhole.

The committee’s initial six-month mandate was extended for another six months in December to allow it carry out comprehensive revalidation and registration exercise for existing and new members. The exercise has, however, experienced multiple extensions.

The protracted membership registration process could affect the ability of the caretaker committee to wrap up its assignment. This made yet lead to seeking a renewed tenure, a move that could escalate contention amongst members who are already challenging the continued stay of the committee in office.