APC Crisis Deepens in Lagos as Aggrieved Members Demand Removal of State Chairman

A fresh crisis has erupted in the Lagos chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as aggrieved members demand the removal of the state chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, amidst accusations of nepotism and favoritism in appointments. The development comes after the party's primary election for the recently concluded local government polls, which was marred by internal tensions. On Monday, protesters under the banner Concerned and Loyal APC Members took to the streets, chanting slogans and holding placards outside the Lagos Assembly complex, prompting heavy security deployment. The protesters, drawn from all 57 LGAs and LCDAs, submitted an appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urging the immediate removal of Ojelabi and allowing constitutional officeholders to carry out their duties without interference from individuals with 'selfish interests.'

Key Takeaways:

  • Aggrieved APC members in Lagos demand the removal of state chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi due to allegations of nepotism and favoritism in appointments.
  • The protest was sparked by internal discontent following the party's primary election for the recently concluded local government polls.
  • Protesters, drawn from all 57 LGAs and LCDAs, submitted an appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urging the immediate removal of Ojelabi and allowing constitutional officeholders to carry out their duties without interference.
  • APC spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, acknowledged the protest, assuring that appointments into council cabinets would follow party rules and recommendations from local leadership after due consultations.
  • Governor Sanwo-Olu barred the chairmen from appointing secretaries to local government and supervisory councillors, directing them to focus on community needs for the next 30 to 60 days.
  • The state government will communicate when appointments should begin, and the party has denied making any move to impose nominations.

Statistics:

  • 57 local government areas (LGAs) and 37 local council development areas (LCDAs) in Lagos state are affected by the crisis.
  • The protest was attended by protesters from all 57 LGAs and LCDAs, who submitted an appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
  • The APC state chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, is facing calls for his removal due to allegations of nepotism and favoritism.

Sources:

  • The Nation
  • Punch Newspapers