The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has asserted that Nigeria’s democracy will remain intact even if the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties fail to make it onto the ballot in upcoming elections.
The party made its position known in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesman, Seye Oladejo, while responding to complaints from a faction of the ADC alleging threats to its participation in the electoral process.
According to the APC, while political pluralism is important, all parties must operate within the framework of existing laws and electoral procedures.
“Democracy is governed by laws and institutional procedures—not by sentiment, entitlement, or alarmist propaganda,” the statement read.
The ruling party emphasised that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) functions within constitutional boundaries and that adherence to electoral guidelines is compulsory for all political actors.
“Compliance is not optional. Any political party that fails to meet stipulated requirements must bear the full consequences of its own actions,” it added.
Drawing from past experiences, the APC recalled instances where it faced similar challenges, including its exclusion from elections in Zamfara and Rivers states during the 2019 general elections due to legal and procedural issues.
The party argued that such precedents demonstrate that no political party is immune to electoral consequences, stressing that the ADC’s situation is not unusual.
It also faulted the opposition party for attempting to shift responsibility, insisting that the current challenges stem from internal issues within the ADC.
“It is disingenuous for a faction-ridden opposition party to externalise blame and attempt to cast the ruling party as a scapegoat for what are clearly self-inflicted wounds,” the statement said.
The APC further described the ADC’s internal struggles as “disorder” and “procedural recklessness,” which it claimed have weakened the party’s standing and credibility.
“It is disingenuous for a faction-ridden opposition party to externalise blame and attempt to cast the ruling party as a scapegoat for what are clearly self-inflicted wounds,” the statement said.
“The electoral process is bigger than any single political party. Heaven will not fall if the ADC, or any other party fails to appear on the ballot as a result of its own non-compliance.”
The APC urged political parties to prioritise internal cohesion and compliance with electoral laws instead of resorting to public complaints.
It reaffirmed its commitment to credible elections, calling on all stakeholders to respect democratic principles and work collectively to strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.
