The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has stated that Nigeria’s democratic system will remain stable even if the African Democratic Congress, ADC, and other political parties do not appear on the ballot in the 2027 general elections.
The position was conveyed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the party’s spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, in response to concerns raised by a faction within the ADC regarding its potential exclusion from the polls.
According to the APC, while political plurality is an important element of democracy, strict adherence to legal frameworks and established electoral procedures must take priority.
“Democracy operates on the basis of laws and institutional processes, not sentiment, entitlement, or alarmist narratives,” the statement said.
The party emphasized that the Independent National Electoral Commission operates within the law, and all political parties are required to comply with stipulated guidelines.
It noted that compliance with electoral regulations is mandatory, adding that any party that fails to meet the requirements must accept the consequences.
Citing precedent, the APC referenced its own exclusion from elections in Zamfara and Rivers states during the 2019 general elections due to procedural and legal issues, stressing that no political party is exempt from the enforcement of electoral rules.
The ruling party also accused elements within the opposition of deflecting responsibility, attributing the ADC’s challenges to internal divisions and organizational weaknesses.
“It is misleading for a factionalised opposition party to shift blame and portray the ruling party as responsible for challenges that are clearly self-inflicted,” the statement added.
The APC argued that internal disunity and procedural lapses have weakened the ADC’s credibility, reiterating that the electoral process does not depend on any single political party.
“The absence of any party from the ballot due to non-compliance does not threaten the democratic system,” it said.
The party urged political organizations to focus on internal cohesion and compliance with electoral laws, rather than resorting to public criticism, while reaffirming its commitment to credible elections and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
