The Lagos state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Thursday condemned a publication alleging plot by the party to impose candidates for public offices ahead of the forthcoming primaries.
The party said information purportedly being circulated by a faceless and self-styled group of “concerned and vigilant members,” is an attempt to inflame passions within the party.
A statement issued by the party publicity secretary, Seye Oladejo, Thursday said: “We state that there is no plot, no clandestine meetings, and no predetermined list of candidates as falsely alleged. These claims are baseless, mischievous and designed to create the false impression of a crisis where none exists.”
The Lagos APC said it is unfortunate that certain elements, unable to advance their ambitions through legitimate party channels, have resorted to the tired tactics of propaganda, blackmail and anonymous media sensationalism.
“Such antics will neither intimidate the leadership of the party nor derail our established democratic processes. The Lagos APC is by this statement formally putting security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and all relevant democratic stakeholders on notice regarding the activities of fifth columnists and political mischief-makers who are engaged in clandestine moves aimed at unnecessarily destabilising and overheating the polity.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Electoral Act as amended is crystal clear on the lawful process for the emergence of candidates for the coming elections. The Lagos APC remains fully guided by the provisions of the law, the constitution of our party, and the duly issued guidelines of the national leadership,” the party said.