Lagos APC Moves to Curb Election Tensions with Consensus Strategy Ahead of LG Polls

Lagos APC Moves to Curb Election Tensions with Consensus Strategy Ahead of LG Polls

In a strategic move to forestall internal conflict and streamline preparations for the forthcoming local government elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has opted to adopt a consensus approach in selecting its candidates across the 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

The decision, party leaders say, is rooted in the need to maintain stability, promote party discipline, and project unity as Lagos prepares for a critical election under the national spotlight—being the home state of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, while addressing stakeholders in Lagos, reaffirmed the party’s long-standing use of consensus as an effective method to manage internal democracy and avoid divisive primaries. “Consensus has helped us remain united. It’s not just a tradition—it’s a necessity in a state as politically dynamic as Lagos,” he said.

The Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), Prince Tajudeen Olusi, emphasized that the local government tier plays a pivotal role in governance, and the party cannot afford instability at that level. Citing his own political journey, Olusi recalled how he once stepped down from a senatorial race in favour of party consensus, urging current aspirants to show similar commitment.

“There are over 400 aspirants vying for chairmanship positions. Without consensus, we risk fracturing the party and weakening our grassroots base,” he said.

Chairman of the APC Electoral Committee, Babatunde Ogala (SAN), described consensus as both practical and peace-preserving, warning that any aspirant who flouts the party’s guidelines would be disqualified. “We have been transparent. This is not about exclusion—it’s about ensuring that the process is peaceful, orderly, and credible,” Ogala stated.

The party’s state chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, echoed these sentiments, cautioning aspirants and their supporters against actions that could damage the APC’s image.

“We are under national observation. This is the first election since our President assumed office, and it will be seen as a litmus test for Lagos APC,” Ojelabi said. “We must rise above personal ambition for the collective good.”

As preparations advance toward the party primaries scheduled for Saturday, the APC leadership insists that the consensus approach will enhance internal cohesion and improve the party’s chances at the polls, while also reinforcing its commitment to a peaceful electoral process.