Lagos APC denies predetermined candidates’ list

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly refuted claims suggesting a predetermined list of candidates for the House of Representatives and state House of Assembly primaries. Our Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, has unequivocally stated that such insinuations are false, baseless, and designed to create a misleading impression of internal crisis. We at The Punch view these allegations, reportedly made by a group calling themselves "Concerned Members of the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress," as a desperate attempt by individuals unable to advance their ambitions through legitimate party channels.

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We state without equivocation that there is no plot, no clandestine meetings, and no predetermined list of candidates as falsely alleged.

We stand by the party leadership's commitment to democratic processes. The assertion that certain leaders, including Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, House of Representatives member James Faleke, Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, and chieftain Mutiu Aare, are compiling a "predetermined list" is a fabrication. These tactics of propaganda and blackmail will not intimidate the leadership nor derail our established democratic procedures. The party leadership views these claims as a "reckless exercise in mischief" aimed at inflaming passions within our great party.

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It is deeply unfortunate that certain elements, unable to advance their ambitions through legitimate party channels, have now resorted to the tired tactics of propaganda, blackmail and anonymous media sensationalism.

For clarity, the Electoral Act, as amended, clearly outlines the lawful process for candidate emergence. The Lagos APC remains fully guided by the law, our party's constitution, and the national leadership's guidelines. Our position is settled and non-negotiable: where consensus cannot be reached through broad consultation, direct primaries will be employed. This commitment to due process and internal democracy will not be swayed by sponsored misinformation or clandestine scheming. The Lagos APC is a disciplined, institution-driven political family founded on consultation and adherence to established rules.

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Such antics will neither intimidate the leadership of the party nor derail our established democratic processes.