The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed claims by a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alleging that it may be barred from fielding candidates in forthcoming elections due to directives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, APC spokesman Seye Oladejo said while political pluralism is fundamental to democracy, participation must strictly adhere to established legal and institutional frameworks.
He emphasized that INEC, as the constitutionally empowered electoral body, operates within the confines of the law to ensure the credibility and orderliness of the electoral process, noting that compliance with its regulations is mandatory for all political parties.
Oladejo argued that the ADC’s predicament is neither unprecedented nor exceptional, citing past instances where the APC itself faced similar consequences. He referenced the party’s exclusion from the 2019 general elections in Zamfara State due to invalid primaries, as well as its disqualification in Rivers State over internal disputes—both outcomes upheld by the courts.
“These precedents underscore the principle that no political party is above the law,” he said, adding that attempts by the ADC to shift blame amount to “alarmist propaganda” and a refusal to accept responsibility for internal shortcomings.
The APC further described the ADC as plagued by internal divisions, indiscipline, and procedural lapses, asserting that such failings have undermined its credibility in the political space. The party also questioned the competence of the ADC’s leadership, accusing it of lacking cohesion and the capacity to manage basic organizational processes.
Oladejo dismissed suggestions that the ruling party bears any responsibility for the ADC’s challenges, insisting that the APC would not be “blackmailed” over what he described as the opposition’s “self-inflicted wounds.”
He added that the electoral process transcends any single political party, stressing that the absence of the ADC—or any party—from the ballot due to non-compliance would not undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
The APC called on all political stakeholders to prioritise internal discipline, resolve disputes, and comply fully with electoral guidelines, maintaining that the strength of Nigeria’s democracy depends on accountability and respect for institutions rather than “excuses and manufactured outrage.”
Reaffirming its commitment to credible elections, the party urged political actors to act in ways that enhance public trust in the democratic process.
