Dozens of discontented members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from across Lagos State’s 57 local councils and development areas marched to the State House of Assembly on Monday, voicing strong opposition to what they described as deliberate interference and manipulation of local government affairs by certain influential party leaders.
The protest, though peaceful, was emotionally charged. The demonstrators accused Lagos APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, and federal lawmaker James Faleke of sidelining democratic principles and orchestrating impositions within the party—particularly during the last primary elections that produced candidates for local council chairmanships.
Chanting slogans and waving placards, the party faithful demanded the removal of Ojelabi and Faleke, whom they claim are sabotaging the collective interest of loyal APC members. According to them, unresolved internal issues could have long-term consequences and possibly harm the party’s performance in the 2027 elections if left unchecked.
One of the protesters, Talibu Lawal from the Onigbongbo LCDA, expressed the frustration of many at the gathering. He stated:
“We are not against the party. In fact, we’ve remained loyal despite the growing injustice. But what we see today is a growing disregard for grassroots participation. During the last primaries, party leaders imposed their preferred candidates, ignoring the popular will. Now, they want to extend that control to appointing council executives. We won’t fold our arms and accept it.”
As tensions mounted, police officers were deployed by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, to ensure order. The protest remained peaceful under tight security supervision.
In response to the demonstration, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Seye Oladejo, issued a formal statement acknowledging the concerns raised by the protesters. He affirmed that the party respects the right of members to express themselves, provided it is done within democratic bounds.
He clarified that the ongoing process of forming cabinets for the local councils would be conducted in line with party regulations and after due consultation at the local level.
“We want to assure members that the constitution of cabinets in the 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs will follow due process. It is the local leadership that drives this process. The state chapter of the APC plays a supportive role and does not impose candidates,” Oladejo said.
He further encouraged party members to make use of the proper internal structures designed to handle disputes, noting that party unity and discipline are critical to sustaining political progress.
“We appeal for calm and encourage our members to address their grievances through the appropriate party organs. Our platform has the internal mechanisms to resolve such issues amicably. APC remains confident that it can navigate internal disagreements without allowing them to escalate beyond control,” he added.
Oladejo concluded by reiterating the party’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and democratic values. He called for patience and understanding while efforts are made to address the underlying concerns and restore harmony within the Lagos APC.