Lagos APC Issues Stern Warning to Local Council Chairmen Over Premature Endorsements
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a firm caution to local council chairmen and other party officials, prohibiting them from publicly endorsing aspirants for elective positions ahead of the party's upcoming primaries. This directive aims to uphold internal democracy and prevent divisions within the party as the 2027 elections approach.
Unauthorized Endorsements Violate Party Principles
In a statement released yesterday, the state Chairman of the party, Cornelius Ojelabi, condemned the recent practice of some council chairmen raising the hands of aspirants and presenting them as consensus candidates. Ojelabi described these actions as unauthorized and contrary to the APC's democratic principles, emphasizing that they undermine the values of fairness and due process for which the party is known.
Ojelabi warned that such premature endorsements could create unnecessary tension, breed suspicion, and deepen divisions within the party at a critical time when unity and discipline are essential. He clarified that the Lagos chapter has not released any guidelines, directives, or timetable for the forthcoming primaries, stressing that any attempt to project or impose aspirants as consensus candidates lacks the party's official approval.
Deputy Governor Hamzat's Consultations with Elders
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, engaged in a series of courtesy visits yesterday as part of his ongoing consultations with party leaders and elders. These visits are in preparation for his 2027 governorship ambition on the APC platform. Hamzat met with the Oba of Lagos, Rilwanu Aremu Akiolu; elder statesman Femi Okunnu; and former Deputy Governor Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire.
Accompanied by APC stalwarts including former lawmaker Musiliu Obanikoro, Senator Ganiyu Solomon, Rasaq Ajala, and Chief Bode Oyedele, Hamzat received royal blessings from Oba Akiolu. The monarch prayed for the success of his political ambition, describing him as a quintessential Omoluabi. Okunnu commended Hamzat for his humility and dedication to Lagos State's development, while Orelope-Adefulire emphasized the need for unity to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 and retain APC control of the state.
Orelope-Adefulire expressed delight at receiving the delegation, noting that both she and her husband were honoured by the visit. She urged party members to remain committed to their civic responsibilities to ensure a resounding APC victory in the 2027 general elections.
This development highlights the APC's efforts to maintain discipline and cohesion ahead of the 2027 polls, balancing internal regulations with strategic political engagements.
