Lagos, Nigeria – The Agbelebu Solidarity Forum has called on the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to dismiss a petition reportedly submitted by Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi over the recently concluded House of Assembly primary election in Agege Constituency I, describing the complaint as lacking merit and failing to comply with established party procedures.
Addressing journalists through its Director General, Dr. Jamiu Ademosu, the Forum alleged that the petition was an attempt to misrepresent facts surrounding the primary election and create what it described as a false narrative about a process already witnessed by party members and stakeholders.
According to Ademosu, the APC Constitution and the party’s nomination guidelines clearly outline the procedures for resolving disputes arising from primary elections, stressing that no aspirant or interest group has the authority to declare themselves victorious outside the party’s recognized processes.
“The authority to declare and affirm the outcome of party primary elections rests solely with the duly constituted organs of the party,” he said.
The Forum argued that the petition does not satisfy the minimum requirements expected of a formal complaint and is inconsistent with the APC’s nomination guidelines for House of Assembly primaries, as well as relevant provisions of the party constitution and applicable electoral regulations.
It further maintained that available evidence from the primary election contradicts some of the figures that have been circulated in connection with the exercise. According to the Forum, video recordings and reports from several wards indicate substantial participation by party members during the voting process, raising questions about figures that have been promoted by certain interests since the conclusion of the exercise.
The group also expressed concerns about developments during the collation process at the local government secretariat, citing scenes observed during live television coverage. It alleged that circumstances surrounding the announcement of disputed figures, including reports of pressure on collation officials, warrant closer examination by party authorities.
“The credibility of any electoral process depends on transparency, due process and strict adherence to established regulations,” the Forum stated.
The organization warned against actions capable of creating division within the APC in Agege and urged party members to prioritize the collective interest of the party above personal ambitions.
It noted that individuals who have benefited from the APC platform should avoid conduct that could encourage anti-party activities or deepen internal disagreements.
The Forum also disclosed that relevant documentary materials, video evidence and other supporting information relating to the conduct of the primary election would be presented before the appropriate party organs when required.
Expressing confidence in the leadership of the APC, the group said it believes the National Working Committee will carefully review all submissions before reaching a decision based on the party’s constitution, nomination guidelines and principles of fairness and justice.
“The truth remains unchanged. No amount of misinformation, propaganda or political grandstanding can alter the facts. The party must remain guided by evidence, its constitution and its established procedures,” the Forum stated.
The Agbelebu Solidarity Forum subsequently urged the APC National Working Committee to dismiss the petition in its entirety and remain focused on preserving the integrity, unity and democratic traditions of the party.
