By Jidenna Owori
Tensions are mounting within the Lagos chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as discontent brews over the alleged imposition of candidates ahead of the upcoming local government elections. Aggrieved party members and aspirants have accused party leadership of sidelining grassroots input and undermining internal democracy in the selection process.
In several local government areas, particularly in key APC strongholds, protests have erupted among ward-level members who claim that their preferred aspirants were unfairly disqualified or bypassed in favor of handpicked loyalists. The controversy has sparked fears of voter apathy and internal sabotage as the party prepares for the polls.
Speaking anonymously, a party stalwart in the Alimosho area described the process as “manipulated from the top,” alleging that certain candidates were imposed without due consultation. “We were promised transparency, but what we’re seeing is a repeat of the old culture of godfatherism,” he said.
Some APC youth groups and women’s wings have also voiced their frustration, staging demonstrations outside party secretariats and demanding a reversal of what they term “undemocratic decisions.”
In response, a spokesperson for the Lagos APC denied any wrongdoing, insisting that the party followed due process and considered various factors in selecting candidates. “The selection was based on competence, loyalty, and grassroots acceptance. While not everyone can emerge, the party remains united,” the statement read.
However, analysts warn that the fallout could damage APC’s chances in the elections if disenchanted members carry out threats to vote against the party or support opposition candidates.
Political observers see the revolt as a test of the party’s internal cohesion and its ability to manage competing interests ahead of larger electoral contests in 2027.
