Lagos APC Chairman Rejects Candidate Imposition for 2027 and Pledges Level Playing Field for All Aspirants

Lagos APC Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi announces no candidates are anointed for 2027. Party to use direct primaries to ensure transparency and inclusivity.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 2, 2026, 10:08 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Nation

Commitment to Internal Democracy and Open Contests

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has officially declared that all elective positions for the 2027 general elections remain open to every qualified member. Party Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi clarified that the leadership has not endorsed or "anointed" any specific individuals for any seats. This announcement follows the conclusion of the party’s National Convention and signals a strategic shift toward selecting the representatives who will represent the APC in the upcoming electoral cycle. Ojelabi emphasized that the party’s primary goal is to foster a transparent environment where merit and popular support determine candidacy.

Direct Primaries as the Preferred Selection Mode

In a move to strengthen grassroots involvement, the Lagos APC has designated direct primaries as the first option for electing its candidates. This approach allows all card-carrying members of the party to vote for their preferred aspirants, rather than relying solely on delegates. While the party remains open to consensus arrangements, Ojelabi noted that such agreements must be reached freely and receive popular acceptance from all interested factions. This strategy aligns with the provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act (as amended) and is intended to ensure that final nominees possess a genuine mandate from the party base.

Regulatory Compliance and Inclusivity Goals

The selection process will be conducted in strict accordance with the official timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Aspirants have been cautioned that all administrative and nomination fees are non-refundable, a standard policy intended to ensure that only serious contenders enter the race. Furthermore, the party has made a specific pledge to promote gender equity. Ojelabi stated that special consideration and encouragement would be given to influential female aspirants within their respective constituencies, aiming to increase the representation of women in Lagos State’s political landscape.