The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared the governorship seat and other elective positions open for contest, reaffirming its commitment to internal democracy ahead of the next election cycle.
Chairman of the party, Cornelius Ojelabi disclosed this yesterday during a meeting with local government chairmen in the state.
His statement is coming amidst the rising speculations over who succeeds Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in the forthcoming election.
There was a widespread report recently that the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) had settled for the current Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat as the anointed candidate while another report said former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is strongly being considered in order to do his second term.
Other aspirants who have emerged are the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu; Former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; Principal Secretary to the President, Hakeem Muri-Okunola; among others.
Addressing the LG chairmen, Ojelabi however said while a consensus option could be adopted, the contest is open to all aspirants.
He said, “In line with the provisions of the Electoral Act, the party will adopt direct primaries as the first option for electing our candidates. However, consensus arrangements will also be encouraged where possible, provided such agreements are freely reached and popularly accepted by all interests.
“As a progressive party, we will give all members a level-playing field to contest the positions of their choice in a free, fair and transparent manner that will produce the real representatives of the various constituencies,” he stated.