Lagos APC Denies Candidate Imposition Allegations Ahead of Elections

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed claims of an alleged plan to impose candidates ahead of forthcoming legislative elections, describing the accusations as baseless.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the state chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, said the report, attributed to a group identifying itself as “concerned and vigilant members,” was fabricated to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension within the party.

Ojelabi maintained that there were no secret meetings or pre-arranged lists of candidates, insisting that the allegations were aimed at manufacturing a crisis where none exists.

He further alleged that some individuals, unable to advance their ambitions through legitimate party processes, had resorted to propaganda and anonymous campaigns to discredit the party’s leadership.

According to him, such actions would not undermine the party’s structures or disrupt its democratic processes.

The party also raised concerns over what it described as attempts by “fifth columnists” to destabilise the political environment, calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other stakeholders to take note of efforts to spread misinformation.

Reaffirming its position, the Lagos APC stated that it would strictly adhere to the Electoral Act, its constitution, and guidelines issued by its national leadership in the selection of candidates.

The statement noted that while consensus arrangements may be adopted where feasible, direct primaries would be conducted where agreement is not reached.

Ojelabi emphasised the party’s commitment to transparency, due process, and internal democracy, urging members and the public to disregard what he described as misleading narratives.

“The Lagos APC remains a disciplined and institution-driven political family founded on consultation, inclusiveness, and respect for democratic norms. The voice of duly registered party members remains supreme, and that voice shall find full expression through duly sanctioned democratic mechanisms,” he said.