Nigeria’s democratic system would endure even if the African Democratic Congress, ADC, and other political parties are not on the ballot in the general elections of 2027, according to the Lagos State branch of the All Progressives Congress, or APC.
In response to worries expressed by a faction within the ADC regarding purported threats to its participation in the polls, the party made the claim in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, Seye Oladejo.
The APC contends that while political diversity is vital to a democracy, the electoral process must prioritize following established processes and legal frameworks.
The statement stated, “Laws and institutional procedures, not sentiment, entitlement, or alarmist narratives, are the foundation upon which democracy operates.”
The party argued that all political parties must adhere to set rules and that the Independent National Electoral Commission, or INEC, operates within the bounds of the law.
It emphasized that adherence to electoral laws is essential, pointing out that any party that doesn’t comply will have to deal with the fallout.
Drawing from its own experience, the APC emphasized that no party is exempt from the application of electoral laws by recalling how legal and procedural errors prevented it from participating in the 2019 general elections in Zamfara and Rivers states.
The ruling party also accused some opposition members of avoiding accountability by blaming organizational flaws and internal conflicts for the ADC’s predicament.
The statement continued, “It is deceptive for a factionalized opposition party to shift blame and portray the ruling party as responsible for challenges that are obviously self-inflicted.”
The APC reiterated that the electoral process is independent of any one political party, claiming that internal chaos and what it called procedural errors have damaged the ADC’s reputation.
“The democratic system is not threatened by the absence of any party from the ballot due to non-compliance,” the statement stated.
Instead of focusing on public concerns, the party urged political organizations to prioritize internal unity and adherence to electoral regulations.
Additionally, it reiterated its dedication to legitimate elections and urged all parties involved to preserve democratic principles and bolster public confidence in the country’s electoral system.
