The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed concerns raised by a faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its possible exclusion from forthcoming elections, insisting that compliance with electoral regulations remains mandatory for all parties.
In a statement issued by its spokesman, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, the APC said allegations that directives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could prevent the ADC from fielding candidates should be viewed within the framework of established laws and procedures governing elections.
The party emphasised that while political pluralism is essential to democracy, electoral participation is strictly regulated and cannot be based on sentiment or entitlement. It noted that INEC operates within constitutional provisions to ensure the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.
According to the APC, any political party that fails to meet stipulated requirements must bear the consequences of non-compliance, describing the ADC’s situation as neither new nor exceptional.
The ruling party cited its own experience during the 2019 general elections, when it was barred from fielding candidates in Zamfara State due to invalid primaries, with the Supreme Court of Nigeria nullifying its victories. It also referenced a similar exclusion in Rivers State arising from internal disputes and flawed nomination processes.
“These precedents reinforce the principle that no political party is above the law,” the statement said.
The APC criticised the ADC for what it described as attempts to externalise blame for internal challenges, attributing the party’s difficulties to leadership disputes and organisational shortcomings.
It further argued that electoral processes are larger than any individual party, stressing that failure to appear on the ballot due to non-compliance would not undermine the democratic system.
The party urged political stakeholders to prioritise internal cohesion and adherence to electoral guidelines, rather than resorting to public accusations.
Reaffirming its commitment to credible elections, the APC called on all parties to respect institutional processes and contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic framework.
