2027 Elections: APC Insists No Anointed Candidates in Lagos

2027 Elections: APC Insists No Anointed Candidates in Lagos

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a strong warning to party members and officials against the premature endorsement of aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that no candidate has been officially approved.

In a statement released on Sunday, the state chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, condemned what he described as “disturbing and unauthorized actions” by some Local Government chairmen who have been publicly presenting certain aspirants as consensus candidates.

Ojelabi stated that such actions undermine internal democracy in APC, as well as the principles of fairness and due process, warning that they could trigger unnecessary tension and division within the party.

“The party wishes to state unequivocally that such conduct is wrong, unacceptable, and a clear violation of the principles of internal democracy, fairness, and due process for which our great party is known,” he said.

He clarified that the Lagos APC has not released any guidelines, directives, or timetable for its forthcoming primaries, emphasizing that any attempt to project or anoint aspirants as consensus candidates remains premature, misleading, and unauthorized.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Lagos State APC has not issued any guidelines, directives, or timetable for the forthcoming primaries. Consequently, any attempt by any party official to project or anoint any aspirant as a consensus candidate is premature, misleading, and entirely without the authorisation of the party,” he added.

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The party chairman further warned that the APC would not hesitate to impose disciplinary sanctions on any official engaging in such acts, describing them as destabilising and capable of undermining party unity ahead of the elections.

He reassured members that all qualified aspirants would be given a level playing field, free from intimidation, coercion, or undue influence. He also urged party officials expected to serve as umpires during the primaries to maintain strict neutrality to ensure a credible process.

The warning comes amid growing political activities across Lagos, as early alignments and endorsements begin to surface ahead of 2027. Despite the party’s directive, some council chairmen in Ikorodu Division have declared support for the re-election of Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

The Executive Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA, Ameen Apanisile, announced the endorsement on behalf of other council leaders, describing it as a deliberate decision based on the lawmaker’s track record and impact across the constituency.

“This endorsement is not made lightly. It is a deliberate decision rooted in proven performance, visible impact, and a steadfast commitment to the growth and development of Ikorodu Division,” Apanisile said.

He added that Benson has demonstrated consistent leadership at the federal level by delivering what he described as tangible dividends of democracy while effectively representing his constituents.

However, the endorsement highlights emerging political undercurrents within the party, as some stakeholders have also begun advocating for rotational representation in the constituency, reflecting early contestations ahead of the polls.

The Lagos APC leadership has consistently maintained that no anointed candidates for 2027 will be imposed, reiterating that all elective positions—including the governorship—will be open for contest through a transparent and democratic process.

Political observers believe the party’s firm stance is aimed at preventing internal crises, promoting unity, and ensuring that the eventual candidates emerge through credible primaries rather than informal endorsements.

2027 Elections: APC Insists No Anointed Candidates in Lagos