The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed allegations of a plan to impose candidates ahead of the forthcoming legislative elections, describing the claims as false, malicious, and intended to create unnecessary tension within the party.
In a statement issued on April 16, the party, through its chairman, Pastor (Hon.) Cornelius Ojelabi, said the report—attributed to a group identified as “concerned and vigilant members”—was a fabrication aimed at misleading the public and stirring disaffection among party faithful.
The party maintained that there were no clandestine meetings or predetermined lists of candidates, as alleged, stressing that its processes remain transparent and in line with democratic principles.
“These claims are baseless and designed solely to create the false impression of crisis where none exists,” the statement said, accusing unnamed individuals of resorting to propaganda and media sensationalism after failing to advance their ambitions through legitimate party channels.
The APC also alerted security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other stakeholders to what it described as the activities of “political mischief-makers” allegedly attempting to destabilize the political environment through misinformation.
According to the party, such actions are aimed at undermining confidence in its internal processes and creating unwarranted anxiety among members and the public. Reaffirming its commitment to due process, the Lagos APC stated that it would strictly adhere to the provisions of the Electoral Act, the party’s constitution, and guidelines issued by its national leadership in the selection of candidates.
It added that while consensus remains an option, direct primaries would be adopted in situations where agreement cannot be reached among stakeholders. “This position is settled, lawful, and non-negotiable,” the statement emphasized, noting that no amount of pressure or misinformation would alter the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
The party further urged members and the public to disregard what it described as the “antics of faceless groups and political opportunists,” assuring that the will of duly registered members would ultimately determine the emergence of candidates.
The statement underscores growing political activities within Lagos State as parties begin positioning ahead of the next round of legislative elections.
