Emmanuel Clement
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Lagos State,Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, has congratulated party leaders and members on the successful conclusion of the party’s National Convention, which saw the emergence of officers across various segments of the party.
In a statement issued on April 2, 2026, Ojelabi expressed appreciation to members for their resilience, sacrifices, and commitment that ensured the smooth conduct of the convention and strengthened the party’s unity and structure.
With the convention now concluded, the chairman noted that the party’s immediate focus shifts to the selection of candidates who will represent the party in the forthcoming elections.
He emphasized that the process would strictly comply with the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as well as the provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act (as amended) and other relevant electoral laws.
Ojelabi disclosed that the party would adopt Direct Primaries as its primary method for selecting candidates.
However, he added that consensus arrangements would also be encouraged where such agreements are voluntarily reached and widely accepted by stakeholders.
The chairman further clarified that all elective positions within the party are open for contest, stressing that there would be no anointed candidates for any seat.
He therefore encouraged interested members to participate in the primaries in accordance with laid-down guidelines.
The pastor turned politician also made it clear that nomination and administrative fees paid by aspirants would not be refunded under any circumstances.
“As a progressive party, we are committed to providing a level-playing field for all aspirants. Our primaries will be conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner that reflects the will of party members and produces credible representatives,” he said.
Ojelabi also reaffirmed the party’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equity, noting that special consideration would be given to popular and influential female aspirants in relevant constituencies to enhance their participation and contributions.
He urged party members to conduct themselves with decorum, discipline, and mutual respect while awaiting the official guidelines from the party’s national leadership, emphasizing that the party would not impose candidates or influence the outcome of the primaries.
“As a party built on strong democratic values, we remain committed to internal democracy and encourage all members to participate with dignity and honour,” he added.
The chairman concluded by calling for unity and cooperation among members as the party prepares for the electoral process.