The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has categorically rejected allegations regarding the imposition of candidates for the upcoming legislative elections. The party described these claims as baseless and intended to create unnecessary tension within its ranks. In a statement released on Thursday, state chairman Cornelius Ojelabi dismissed the report from a group identifying itself as “concerned and vigilant members,” labeling it a fabrication designed to mislead the public and sow discord.
Ojelabi emphasized that there are no secret meetings or pre-arranged candidate lists, asserting that the allegations represent a deliberate attempt to manufacture a crisis. He accused certain individuals, who were unable to pursue their ambitions through legitimate party channels, of resorting to propaganda and anonymous campaigns to undermine the party’s leadership. He stated that such tactics would not weaken the party’s structures or disrupt its democratic processes.
The APC expressed concern over what it termed the efforts of “fifth columnists” to destabilize the political environment. The party called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other stakeholders to be vigilant against attempts to spread misinformation. Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and due process, the Lagos APC stated that it would adhere strictly to the Electoral Act, the party’s constitution, and the guidelines issued by its national leadership when selecting candidates.
The statement clarified that while consensus arrangements may be pursued where feasible, direct primaries would be conducted in cases where no agreement is reached, describing this approach as both lawful and binding. Ojelabi reiterated the party’s dedication to internal democracy, insisting that no amount of pressure or misinformation would change its position. He urged party members and the public to disregard misleading narratives propagated by opportunistic groups.
“The Lagos APC remains a disciplined and institution-driven political family founded on consultation, inclusiveness, and respect for democratic norms,” the statement concluded. It emphasized that the voice of duly registered party members is paramount and will find expression through sanctioned democratic mechanisms. The party urged its members and the public to ignore the “antics of faceless groups and political opportunists” whose tactics involve false alarms and manufactured controversies, reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy and the collective will of its members in determining candidate selection.
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