The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the African Democratic Congress’s (ADC) claims of winning elections in the state. According to Mogaji Seye Oladejo, the APC’s state spokesman, Lagos is not viable for “political apprentices” and is not up for grabs. Oladejo described the ADC’s ambition to take over the state as a “political fantasy,” citing the party’s lack of structures, ideas, credible candidates, and electoral presence.

The APC spokesman emphasized that a party that cannot organize a worthwhile ward meeting is unlikely to succeed in a state like Lagos, which is known for its sustained governance, innovation, and leadership. He stated that the ADC’s posturing is an attempt to inflate its political standing through “wishful thinking” and “laughable headlines.” Oladejo urged the ADC to focus on building its internal strength before pursuing state-level ambitions, suggesting that the party should first take control of its polling units.

The APC’s response comes amid the ADC’s claims of seeking “citizens’ cooperation” to take over the state. However, Oladejo argued that the ADC’s lack of credibility and electoral footprint makes its ambitions unrealistic. He pointed out that the party struggled to fill a bus stop with its members in 2023, making it unlikely to win over a state with over 20 million people and a sophisticated electorate.

The exchange between the two parties highlights the competitive nature of Lagos State’s political landscape. As the state continues to be a hub for innovation and governance, political parties are vying for relevance and control. The APC’s dominance in the state has been longstanding, but the ADC’s claims suggest that the party is seeking to challenge the status quo. Despite the APC’s dismissal of the ADC’s ambitions, the exchange is likely to contribute to the ongoing political discourse in the state.