Introduction
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has moved to quell rising concerns over alleged plans to impose candidates for the forthcoming House of Representatives and State House of Assembly primaries. In a firm statement, the party dismissed these insinuations as baseless and mischievous, reiterating its unwavering commitment to transparent and democratic selection processes.
Reaffirming Commitment to Direct Primaries
Addressing the allegations, the Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, emphasized that the party remains dedicated to direct primaries as the preferred method for candidate selection, especially in instances where a consensus cannot be reached through extensive consultations. This stance aims to assure party members that their voices will be heard and that the selection process will be fair and inclusive.
Dispelling
Allegations of a Predetermined List
The clarification from the APC leadership comes in response to claims made by a group identifying itself as “Concerned Members of the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress.” This group had alleged that certain party leaders, including the Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, House of Representatives member James Faleke, and Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, were compiling a predetermined list of candidates. Such actions, the group argued, would violate the party’s commitment to direct primaries and undermine the democratic rights of its members.
Ojelabi vehemently refuted these allegations, labeling them as desperate fabrications and a calculated attempt to stir unrest within the party. He asserted that there were no clandestine meetings or predetermined lists, and that the party operates strictly within the confines of the Electoral Act and its internal guidelines.
Upholding Internal Democracy
The Lagos APC chairman further reaffirmed the party’s dedication to internal democracy, stressing that it would not be swayed by what he described as sponsored misinformation and political propaganda. He urged party members and the public to disregard the antics of faceless groups and political opportunists, assuring them that the selection of candidates would be guided by the will of duly registered party members.
Conclusion
The Lagos APC’s swift response to the allegations of candidate imposition underscores its commitment to maintaining transparency and internal democracy. By reaffirming its adherence to direct primaries and dismissing claims of predetermined lists, the party aims to foster unity and ensure a credible selection process as it prepares for upcoming elections. The focus remains on empowering members and upholding the principles of fair representation within the party.
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