The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded to a protest staged on Monday by some of its members at the Lagos State House of Assembly in Ikeja over the constitution of local government cabinets.
The protesters, who represented stakeholders from all 57 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), expressed displeasure over the process of selecting cabinet members and demanded changes in party leadership.
Many carried placards with inscriptions such as ‘Ojelabi Must Go’ and ‘We Want Fresh Leadership’, calling for the removal of the party’s state chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi.
In a statement made available to THEWHISTLER by the state party’s spokesperson, Hon. Seye Oladejo, the APC acknowledged the right of members to engage in peaceful protest, describing it as a legitimate feature of democratic engagement.
He commended those who conducted themselves in an orderly manner during the demonstration.
Oladejo, however, clarified that the selection of cabinet members for the 20 local government councils and 37 LCDAs would strictly follow laid-down rules and internal party guidelines after due consultations with local leadership.
“Please note that party at the state level only plays an advisory role. The party hereby vehemently denies any allegation to impose nomination on any local government.
“We want to advise interested members to approach their local leadership who are the custodians of the powers to nominate.
“We remain committed to constructive dialogue to review concerns and disputes to ensure fair outcomes in line with party values,” he said.
The spokesperson urged party members to channel their concerns through official party organs rather than street protests, assuring that APC has the capacity to resolve internal disputes without external escalation.
“We appeal for constructive participation and plead with the protesters to channel their concerns through official party organs. Our structures exist precisely to address dissent, evaluate claims, and foster unity.
“APC remains confident in its capacity to resolve internal issues without external escalation.
“Our ultimate goal is stability within both the party and the state governance structure.
“We trust our leadership at various levels to follow the guidelines and endeavour to be fair to all and sundry.
“We urge patience and understanding on the part of the protesters in order to achieve the desired objectives,” Oladejo stated.
Security operatives were deployed around the Assembly complex during the protest to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
