The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Lagos State says it has adopted direct primaries as the first option for electing candidates which is in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
The direct primaries are processes whereby all party members have a chance of participating in the election process of party flagbearers for Senate, House of Representatives, Governor, and State House of Assembly members.
In a statement, the Chairman of the party in Lagos State, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi said that consensus arrangements will also be encouraged where possible, provided such agreements are freely reached and popularly accepted by all interests.
Pastor Ojelabi stated that all the available positions are open for contest as the party has no anointed candidate for any seat, encouraging all members who wish to contest any of the positions to do so in accordance with the law.
He emphasised that the party will not refund the nomination and administrative fees to any aspirant.
Pastor Ojelabi assured all members of a level-playing field to contest the positions of their choice in a free, fair and transparent manner that will produce the real representatives of the various constituencies.
He said that in line with the party’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equity, special consideration will be given to popular and influential female aspirants in relevant constituencies to promote their participation and contribution to the process.
He advised interested members to play by the rules as the party will not engage in imposition of candidates and neither will it influence the outcome of the primaries.
He said that the party remains committed to upholding the principles of internal democracy and encourages everyone to play their part with dignity and honour as the party awaits the official guidelines on the primaries from the national body urging all members to, as usual, conduct themselves with decorum, discipline, and mutual respect.
While congratulating the leaders and members of the party on the successful hosting of the National Convention which concluded the election of the officers of the party in its various segments, Pastor Ojelabi hailed party members support, resilience and sacrifices in bringing glory to the party.
Reporting by Taoreed Abdullahi