The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed claims that it has drawn up a predetermined list of candidates ahead of its forthcoming primaries, insisting that its selection process remains open and democratic.
The clarification was issued at a stakeholders’ meeting held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the party’s secretariat in Acme, Ikeja, where leaders sought to reassure members amid rising concerns over alleged candidate imposition.
Speaking at the meeting, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo, described reports of a secret candidate list as unfounded and aimed at creating division within the party.
He stressed that the Lagos APC would adhere strictly to its constitution, adding that no aspirant would be unfairly sidelined in the build-up to the 2027 elections.
Party leaders explained that while consensus remains an option for selecting candidates, it would only be adopted where all aspirants voluntarily agree.
They noted that in situations where consensus cannot be reached, the party would revert to direct primaries, allowing registered members at the grassroots level to vote for their preferred candidates.
The development follows the recent APC National Convention 2026, where consensus was used to select national party leaders, sparking debates across state chapters on the adoption of similar methods.
In other states, including Ogun and Oyo, internal discussions have also intensified, with varying approaches to candidate selection emerging within party ranks.
Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, urged aspirants to maintain discipline and avoid spreading unverified claims that could harm the party’s image.
He reiterated that the party’s strength lies in its internal democracy and commitment to fairness, assuring members of a level playing field.
The party has completed the screening of several aspirants for local government positions and is expected to announce dates for its primaries across the state’s 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas in the coming weeks.