The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a stern warning to its members against prematurely endorsing candidates ahead of the upcoming party primaries, describing such actions as unauthorized and potentially damaging to party unity. In a statement released on April 19, 2026, State Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi confirmed that the party leadership has received reports of local government chairmen publicly promoting certain individuals as “consensus candidates” for elective positions. He emphasized that these moves go against the party’s core values of internal democracy, fairness, and due process, and are therefore not in line with official party procedures.
Ojelabi stated that no formal guidelines, timetables, or directives have yet been issued for the conduct of the primaries in Lagos State. As a result, any public endorsement or projection of aspirants at this stage is considered premature and misleading. The party leadership is concerned that such early declarations could create unnecessary tension, breed suspicion, and deepen divisions among members at a time when unity is essential for the party’s success.
The APC has made it clear that disciplinary actions will be taken against any official found engaging in what it terms “unauthorized and destabilizing acts.” The party is committed to ensuring that all qualified aspirants are given a fair and level playing field, free from intimidation or undue influence. This commitment underscores the APC’s dedication to transparency, equity, and credible internal democratic processes.
Party officials who will be responsible for overseeing the primaries have been urged to remain neutral and impartial. Their role is to uphold the integrity, cohesion, and credibility of the party throughout the electoral process. The leadership stresses that the primaries must be conducted in a manner that reflects the party’s values and ensures that every member’s voice is heard.
The warning comes amid growing speculation and political activity across Lagos State as candidates and stakeholders prepare for the upcoming elections. The APC’s stance serves as a reminder that the party’s internal processes must be respected and followed to avoid chaos and maintain public confidence. As the party gears up for the primaries, the focus remains on ensuring a smooth, fair, and inclusive selection process that strengthens its position ahead of the general elections. The coming weeks will be critical in shaping the party’s future in Lagos, and adherence to these guidelines will be key to maintaining its unity and credibility.
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