Lagos APC: Democracy not at risk if ADC misses 2027 ballot

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) stated earlier today that Nigeria’s democratic system will remain intact even if the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other parties are absent from the 2027 general elections ballot. The assertion came in a Tuesday statement by APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo, responding to ADC faction concerns about alleged threats to its participation.

The APC emphasized that while political diversity is valuable, adherence to legal frameworks and INEC guidelines must take precedence in elections. “Democracy operates on the basis of laws and institutional processes, not sentiment, entitlement, or alarmist narratives,” the statement read. The party stressed that all political parties must meet stipulated requirements, and failure to comply means accepting consequences.

The APC cited its own experience, recalling its exclusion from Zamfara and Rivers state elections in 2019 due to legal lapses, to argue that no party is immune from electoral rules. It accused sections of the opposition of deflecting responsibility, attributing the ADC’s situation to internal divisions and organisational shortcomings. “The absence of any party from the ballot due to non-compliance does not threaten the democratic system,” it said.

The party urged political organisations to prioritise internal cohesion and compliance with electoral laws, reaffirming its commitment to credible elections and calling on stakeholders to strengthen public trust in the electoral system.

This positions electoral compliance as a non-negotiable foundation of Nigeria’s democracy, regardless of party affiliation. Should political diversity or legal proceduralism take precedence when parties face exclusion?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/07/democracy-not-at-risk-if-adc-misses-2027-ballot-lagos-apc/