Emmanuel Clement
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reacted to claims by a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alleging that directives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may prevent it from fielding candidates in forthcoming elections, stating that democracy is governed by law and not sentiment.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the party spokesperson, Mogaji (Hon.) Seye Oladejo,the party maintained that while political pluralism remains essential in a democratic system, all political parties must operate within established legal and institutional frameworks.
According to the party, INEC, as the constitutionally empowered electoral body, is mandated to enforce compliance with electoral guidelines in order to protect the credibility and integrity of the democratic process.
It stressed that compliance with these regulations is not optional and that parties failing to meet requirements must accept the consequences of their actions.
Oladejo noted that the situation confronting the ADC is not unprecedented, citing past experiences of the ruling party. It recalled that during the 2019 general elections, the APC in Zamfara State was barred from fielding candidates due to invalid primaries, a decision later upheld by the Supreme Court, which nullified all victories recorded by the party.
Similarly, the party pointed out that the APC was excluded from participating in the 2019 elections in Rivers State following internal disputes and flawed nomination processes, as affirmed by the courts.
“These precedents clearly demonstrate that no political party is above the law, and no amount of public outcry can substitute for compliance,” the statement said.
The Lagos APC described the ADC’s reaction as disingenuous, accusing the opposition party of attempting to shift blame for what it termed internal failures and organizational shortcomings.
It further alleged that the ADC’s internal divisions and procedural lapses have undermined its credibility and exposed weaknesses in its leadership structure.
The party also questioned the capacity of the ADC leadership, stating that individuals presented as experienced political figures now appear unable to manage basic party organization and discipline required in a democratic system.
The APC went further to dismiss attempts to implicate the ruling party in the ADC’s challenges, insisting that it would not be blackmailed into accepting responsibility for another party’s alleged ineptitude and miscalculations.
According to the statement, the electoral process is bigger than any political party, adding that the absence of any party from the ballot due to non-compliance would not undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
The Lagos APC urged political parties to resolve internal conflicts, comply with electoral guidelines, and avoid public theatrics that could erode confidence in the democratic process.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to free, fair, and credible elections, calling on all stakeholders to uphold discipline, accountability, and respect for democratic institutions.