We write this letter with a deep sense of urgency concerning the unravelling situation within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, a party that once stood as a beacon of hope for many but now appears to be embroiled in a chaotic struggle for power and relevance. The current state of affairs raises serious concerns not only about internal party dynamics but also about the very principles of democracy and governance that should guide us as a state.
As we approach the crucial local elections, the impending battle between the Lagos State Government and the Lagos State House of Assembly is becoming increasingly evident. Instead of focusing on pressing issues that affect the lives and welfare of Lagosians, these bodies are embroiled in a futile struggle for supremacy, seemingly blind to the ticking clock that counts down to the election date. This self-serving arrogance has the potential to undermine the democratic process and disenfranchise the citizens they are meant to serve.
Central to the discord is the contentious issue of where the authority lies regarding the conduct of local elections. Should elections be held solely in the 20 constitutionally recognized Local Governments, or should they also encompass the additional 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs)? This critical question was addressed in a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court in the suit brought by the Attorney General of Lagos State against the Federal Government. The ruling affirmed that the structure of Local Governments and their functions must adhere to constitutional guidelines, an assertion the APC appears increasingly reluctant to accept.
In a celebrated case, the APC boldly declared it would forgo congresses or primary elections within the balkanized wards and Local Governments. This raises a pressing constitutional question: Is it tenable for a party that plans to contest an election to dictate how the electoral umpire conducts the election? The answer unequivocally leans toward the notion that such authority should reside with LASIEC, the electoral body tasked with ensuring free and fair elections, rather than the APC or any other political entity.
It is troubling that the State Chairman of the APC has already laid claim to determining the mode and format of the 2025 local elections, despite the inherent conflict of interest this presents. Such declarations undermine the credibility of the electoral process and put the future of democracy in Lagos at risk. Moreover, recent comments from the Chief of Staff to the President regarding this matter further complicate the dialogue and suggest a level of interference that ought to be unacceptable in a democratic society.
The response from the Lagos APC to these remarks has highlighted the fractures within the party, serving as a critical indicator that things are fast falling apart within what should be a cohesive governing unit. The situation begs the broader question: Whither Lagosians? Are we witnessing the beginning of the end for the APC, or merely the end of the beginning?
Looking back on history, one cannot help but draw parallels to the struggles faced by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2011, which ultimately birthed the APC in 2013. The cracks within the APC threaten its very foundation, and President Bola Tinubu whose leadership once inspired hope now faces the pivotal test of whether he will uphold the rule of law or exhibit indifference toward constitutional authority.
As citizens of Lagos, we must remain vigilant. The fate of our local elections whether they will be conducted fairly, transparently, and in accordance with the law lies in the balance. It is incumbent upon each one of us to advocate for adherence to the rule of law and for a process that prioritizes the voices and will of the people.
We are watching closely, and it is our collective responsibility to demand accountability, transparency, and respect for the democratic principles that should guide our beloved Lagos State. The time for complacency has passed; we must stand united in ensuring that Lagos is not above the law.
In solidarity and watchfulness,
Comrade Taiwo Awoseinde
Lagos Democrats Coalition
