Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) reassured Nigerians on Tuesday that the nation’s democracy will remain stable even if some opposition parties fail to appear on future election ballots. The APC statement, released by its spokesman, Seye Oladejo, came in response to complaints by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over alleged threats to its participation in upcoming elections. The APC emphasized that democracy is governed by laws and institutional procedures, not by political pressures or alarmist claims.
The party maintained that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) operates strictly within constitutional limits and that all political parties must comply with electoral regulations. Any party failing to meet these requirements will face the consequences, the APC said. The APC also highlighted its own experience in 2019, when it was barred from participating in elections in Zamfara and Rivers states due to legal and procedural issues. This precedent, according to the party, shows that electoral sanctions are not limited to opposition parties and apply equally to all political entities.
Addressing the allegations raised by the ADC, the Lagos APC described the opposition party’s internal crisis as the result of disorganization and procedural lapses that have undermined its credibility. The statement condemned the opposition’s attempt to blame the ruling party for its own challenges, referring to it as “disingenuous.” The APC reiterated that the electoral process is governed by clear rules and that failure to comply with these rules can lead to exclusion from the ballot, but this does not threaten the stability of democracy.
The party acknowledged that the ADC’s difficulties are internal, urging political actors to focus on resolving their own issues rather than making public accusations. The APC also reaffirmed its commitment to credible elections and urged all stakeholders to work together to bolster public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process. The party’s message underscored the importance of adherence to electoral guidelines, suggesting that stability would not be compromised by the absence of any single party on the ballot.
Moving forward, the APC’s emphasis on strict compliance with electoral laws and procedures signals a continued focus on maintaining transparency and fairness in Nigeria’s democratic framework. As the country prepares for future elections, the APC’s assurance of stability is aimed at reassuring the public and encouraging political parties to meet their legal obligations. The party’s stance indicates that while challenges may arise, democracy in Nigeria will continue to progress through adherence to established rules and institutions.
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