Lagos APC Denies Candidate Imposition Plot, Reaffirms Commitment to Internal Democracy
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly dismissed allegations of a plot to impose candidates ahead of forthcoming legislative elections, describing the claims as malicious, baseless, and intended to create unnecessary tension within the party. In a detailed statement issued on Thursday, the state chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, asserted that the report attributed to a faceless group of so-called concerned and vigilant members was a complete fabrication designed to mislead the public and stir internal discord.
Allegations Dismissed as Fabricated and Misleading
Ojelabi stated unequivocally that there were no clandestine meetings or predetermined lists of candidates, insisting that the allegations were a calculated attempt to manufacture a crisis where none exists. He accused unnamed individuals of resorting to propaganda and anonymous media campaigns after failing to advance their ambitions through legitimate party structures. According to him, such actions would not intimidate the party leadership or disrupt its democratic processes, which are built on transparency and fairness.
Concerns Over Destabilizing Activities and Calls for Vigilance
The party also raised significant concerns over what it described as destabilizing activities by fifth columnists, urging security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other stakeholders to take note of attempts to overheat the political environment through misinformation. This call to action underscores the APC's commitment to maintaining a stable and credible electoral process, free from undue influence or manipulation.
Adherence to Electoral Laws and Party Guidelines
Reaffirming its unwavering position, the Lagos APC declared 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. The statement emphasised that consensus would be pursued where possible, but direct primaries would be conducted in situations where agreement could not be reached, stressing that this approach remains lawful and non-negotiable. This dual strategy ensures that all party members have a voice in the democratic process.
Commitment to Due Process and Transparency
Ojelabi maintained that no amount of misinformation or political pressure would alter the party's commitment to due process, transparency, and internal democracy. He urged party members and the public to disregard what he described as false narratives being circulated by opportunistic groups, assuring that the will of registered party members would ultimately determine the emergence of candidates. This reassurance aims to bolster confidence in the party's internal mechanisms and prevent any erosion of trust among supporters.
Emphasis on Democratic Norms and Member Supremacy
The statement further elaborated that the Lagos APC remains a disciplined and institution-driven political family founded on consultation, inclusiveness, and respect for democratic norms. It highlighted that the voice of duly registered party members remains supreme and will find full expression through duly sanctioned democratic mechanisms. This principle is central to the party's identity and operational framework, ensuring that decisions are made collectively rather than by a select few.
Final Appeal to Disregard False Narratives
In a concluding appeal, Ojelabi urged members and the general public to disregard the antics of faceless groups and political opportunists whose stock-in-trade is false alarm and manufactured controversy. He reiterated that internal democracy will prevail, due process will be upheld, and the collective will of members shall remain the ultimate determinant of candidate emergence. This firm stance reinforces the party's dedication to upholding democratic values and fostering a transparent political environment in Lagos State.
