Tinubu Champions Direct Primaries, Rejects Candidate Imposition in APC
President Bola Tinubu has issued a clear directive to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasizing that party members nationwide should be empowered to select their preferred candidates for upcoming governorship and legislative primaries. This move underscores a commitment to internal democracy and transparent selection processes within the party.
National Chairman Confirms Presidential Directive
APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, during an interview on Arise Television, revealed that President Tinubu specifically instructed party leadership in Lagos State to allow members to queue behind candidates of their choice through direct primaries, particularly when consensus cannot be achieved. Yilwatda stressed that this directive aims to foster credible and democratic candidate selection, ensuring the party's processes remain fair and inclusive.
Lagos APC Dismisses Imposition Allegations
In a related development, the Lagos State chapter of the APC has firmly rejected reports alleging a plot to impose candidates ahead of legislative elections. State Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, in a signed statement, labeled these claims as "a fabrication" designed to sow discord within the party. He clarified that no clandestine meetings or predetermined candidate lists exist, dismissing the allegations as baseless and intended to create a false impression of crisis.
The Lagos APC urged its members and the public to disregard these false claims, reiterating that the will of party members will ultimately determine candidate emergence, aligning with Tinubu's emphasis on democratic principles.
Grassroots Mobilization for Hamzat's 2027 Ambition
Meanwhile, a grassroots support group named KOHmmunity has initiated mobilization efforts to advance the governorship ambition of Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat for the 2027 elections. This group, spanning across the metropolis from tech clusters in Yaba and university communities in Akoka to major markets in Alaba and Lagos Island, adopts a non-traditional, citizen-driven approach to political engagement.
Convenor Dr. Lanre Ajibade stated that KOHmmunity operates independently of conventional campaign structures, with over 5,000 residents already registered through its membership platform. He described the initiative as a "citizen-led movement" focused on galvanizing statewide support for Hamzat's aspiration, driven by shared concerns about Lagos's development trajectory and the need for experienced leadership.
Folashade Ajayi, a group member coordinating a cell in Idumota, noted that this movement reflects a shift in civic participation among residents, signaling broader evolution in voter engagement with an emphasis on continuity in infrastructure development and technocratic governance.
