APC Faces Internal Strife In Lagos Over Council Election Candidates

A growing schism is tearing apart the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, centred on alleged attempts by the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, to influence candidate selection in the upcoming July council elections, particularly in Agege Local Government Area and Orile Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

Sources within the party report growing discontent with Obasa’s perceived imposition of preferred candidates, particularly in Orile Agege LCDA. The move has sparked outrage among loyal APC members, who believe their contributions to previous electoral victories are being overlooked and that the party’s internal democratic processes are being weakened.

“Grassroots mobilisers, the foundation of the APC’s success, are now questioning the party’s commitment to fairness and inclusion,” a party insider told our correspondent. “They feel left out and disrespected by this top-down approach.”

The tension has raised fears of widespread disunity within the party. Critics warn that if Obasa’s actions are not addressed, the APC will face significant internal dissent and a possible electoral defeat in the LCDA.

Disgruntled members may choose not to support the imposed candidates or to actively vote for opposition parties.

Residents of Orile Agege LCDA have now urged Obasa to uphold democratic principles by allowing a free, fair, and transparent primary election.

They are demanding that the Speaker withdraw from his alleged attempts to influence the process and allow the people’s voices to be heard.

Calls are also being made for the Lagos State APC leadership and the Federal Government to step in and prevent individual interests from jeopardising the party’s electoral prospects.

“The future of the APC in Orile Agege is uncertain,” said a concerned community leader. “It is critical that Rt. Hon. Obasa reverse his actions and allow a fair and open democratic process to select the party’s candidates.

He must respect the people’s will and ensure that the most popular and capable candidates emerge from transparent primary elections.”

The controversy highlights the APC’s challenges in balancing internal party dynamics with democratic participation principles.

How the party leadership responds to this escalating situation will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the APC’s chances in the upcoming council elections and beyond.