By Adeyemi Adeleye
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected claims of a plot to impose candidates, describing them as false and malicious.
State Chairman, Mr Cornelius Ojelabi, gave the clarification in a statement issued on Thursday in Lagos.
Ojelabi said the report, attributed to a faceless group, was fabricated to create tension within the party.
“The Lagos APC strongly condemns and rejects the malicious publication alleging a plot to impose candidates ahead of elections.
“The report, based on claims by a faceless group, is a desperate fabrication and a calculated attempt to inflame passions within our party.
“We state clearly there is no plot, no clandestine meetings, and no predetermined list of candidates.
“These claims are baseless and designed to create a false impression of crisis where none exists,” he said.
Ojelabi said some individuals, unable to pursue ambitions through legitimate structures, had resorted to propaganda and anonymous publications.
“It is unfortunate that certain elements have resorted to propaganda, blackmail, and anonymous media sensationalism to advance their ambitions.
“Such antics will neither intimidate the party’s leadership nor derail its democratic processes,” he said.
He added that the party had alerted security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and stakeholders to activities of political mischief-makers.
“These actors seek to create distrust and provoke political anxiety through orchestrated falsehoods.
“Their actions are aimed at undermining confidence in the party’s transparent processes,” he said.
Ojelabi stressed that the Electoral Act clearly outlines lawful procedures for candidate emergence.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Electoral Act is clear on the process for candidate emergence in the coming elections,” he said.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to legal provisions, its constitution, and guidelines issued by its national leadership.
“Where consensus fails, there shall be direct primaries. This position is settled, lawful, and non-negotiable,” he said.
Ojelabi said misinformation and political scheming would not derail the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
“No amount of misinformation or propaganda will alter our commitment to due process and internal democracy.
“The Lagos APC remains a disciplined, institution-driven party founded on consultation and inclusiveness,” he said.
He urged members and the public to disregard claims by faceless groups and political opportunists.
“Internal democracy will prevail, due process will be upheld, and members’ will shall determine candidate emergence,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)