In the lead-up to Lagos State’s July 12, 2025, local government elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is under scrutiny for alleged imposition of candidates, sparking protests and internal dissent within the party.
Oluwagbenga Abiola, Vice Chairman of Agege Local Government Area, has withdrawn his chairmanship ambition in favor of Abdulganiyu Obasa, son of Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Abiola cited loyalty to Obasa, who has been instrumental in his political rise, as the reason for his decision. However, this move has been met with resistance from local stakeholders.
The Agege Political Stakeholders Group penned an open letter to President Bola Tinubu and the APC leadership, expressing concern over the perceived imposition. They warned that such actions could lead to internal crises and urged for a transparent selection process.
In Ojokoro Local Council Development Area, APC members staged protests against the alleged imposition of a chairmanship candidate. Demonstrators carried placards with messages like “We want an indigenous leader, not a stranger” and “No imposition, Obasa is forcing it on us.” They called for free and fair primaries, emphasizing the need for candidates who are familiar with local issues. Ojokoro LCDA Chairman Hammed Tijani addressed the protesters, assuring them that no candidate would be imposed and that the party is working towards resolving the issues amicably.
Similar tensions have been reported in other parts of Lagos State. In Lagos Island and Iru-Victoria Island LGAs, party members accused leaders of attempting to install their preferred candidates without due process. Protesters urged APC national leader Bola Tinubu and the party’s Governor’s Advisory Council to ensure adherence to democratic principles in candidate selection.
These developments highlight growing unrest within the APC over candidate selection processes, with calls for transparency and adherence to democratic norms becoming increasingly vocal.
