A group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, operating under the umbrella of The Mandate Movement (TMM) in Oshodi/Isolo Constituencies 1 and 2, has rejected any attempt to impose candidates through undemocratic means, warning that it will resist efforts to manipulate the party structure for individual interests.
The group made this known in a communiqué read by its leader and member of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), Chief Muraino Taiwo, following an emergency meeting held in the Ilasamaja area of Lagos.
TMM accused the Justice Forum caucus of endorsing the sitting member representing Oshodi/Isolo Constituency 2 in the Lagos State House of Assembly without formally inviting leaders of The Mandate Movement.
According to the group, it was neither informed nor invited to the alleged meeting despite being a prominent caucus within the party. It described the development as part of a recurring pattern aimed at sidelining its leadership.
“This recurring pattern strongly suggests a deliberate attempt by the Justice Forum to marginalise TMM leaders in a bid to manipulate the selection of consensus candidates to its advantage,” the communiqué stated.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and the principle of popular mandate, stressing that it unequivocally rejects any form of marginalisation within the party. It also called on the APC leadership to remain vigilant and take decisive steps against actions that undermine internal democracy.
TMM commended the Lagos State APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, for reportedly nullifying the purported endorsement of the lawmaker, describing the move as consistent with established rules guiding party primaries.
The group said it aligns fully with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2025 and APC guidelines, which allow for consensus arrangements but require direct primaries where consensus fails.
While encouraging aspirants to step down for one another in the interest of unity, the group cautioned that such processes must not be monopolised by any single faction seeking undue advantage.
It further demanded the immediate inauguration of a Constituency Consensus Committee with equal representation from both caucuses to ensure transparency, fairness, and credibility.
“As we look ahead, all efforts must be geared towards securing resounding victories for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates. Unity, inclusiveness, and collective responsibility are non-negotiable,” the group stated.
The group warned that any attempt to divide the party, exclude key stakeholders, or impose candidates through undemocratic means would amount to internal sabotage.
It reiterated its resolve to resist any manipulation of the party structure, pledging to support only credible and widely accepted candidates capable of delivering decisive victories at the polls.
