Lagos APC Warns Officials Against Premature Endorsement of Aspirants Ahead of Primaries

Lagos APC Warns Officials Against Premature Endorsement of Aspirants Ahead of Primaries

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a stern warning to party officials, particularly local government chairmen, over the unauthorized endorsement of aspirants for elective positions, describing the practice as a violation of internal democratic principles.

The Lagos APC, under the leadership of its State Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, expressed concern over reports that some local government chairmen have been publicly presenting certain aspirants as “consensus candidates” without the approval of the party.

In a statement released on Saturday, the party condemned the actions as “wrong, unacceptable, and a clear violation” of the party’s commitment to fairness, due process, and internal democracy. It warned that such conduct could create unnecessary tension, fuel suspicion, and deepen divisions within the party ranks.

The party clarified that it has not yet released any official guidelines, directives, or timetable for the conduct of its forthcoming primaries. As such, it stressed that any attempt to project or anoint aspirants as consensus candidates remains premature and unauthorized.

“For the avoidance of doubt, any such endorsement is misleading and does not have the backing of the party,” the statement noted.

The APC further cautioned that disciplinary measures would be taken against any official who continues to engage in such acts, emphasizing its resolve to maintain order and discipline within its fold.

Reassuring aspirants, the party stated that all qualified and duly registered members would be given a fair and level playing field to contest, free from intimidation, coercion, or undue influence.

The statement reiterated the Lagos APC’s commitment to upholding its reputation as a political institution founded on justice, equity, transparency, and credible internal democratic processes.

Party officials expected to oversee the primaries were also urged to remain neutral and act as impartial arbiters in the overall interest of unity, cohesion, and credibility of the party.