A violent altercation erupted at the Lagos State All Progressives Congress secretariat on Monday, as disgruntled party members attacked Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi.
The incident occurred during a protest over Ojelabi’s handling of the Alimosho Local Government leadership crisis.
Protesters, demanding recognition of former public office holders, confronted Ojelabi, physically assaulting him and removing his cap.
Security personnel intervened, rescuing the Chairman from the mob.
Lagos APC spokesman Hon. Seye Oladejo downplayed the incident, describing it as a “storm in a teacup” and attributing it to “uninvited thugs with ulterior motives.”
He emphasized the party’s commitment to resolving disputes peacefully and maintaining discipline, according to Politics Nigeria.
The incident highlights the ongoing leadership crisis within the Lagos APC, with factions vying for control.
The party has pledged to address the issues and maintain unity ahead of future elections.
He said in a statement, “Our attention has been drawn to the news going round about a purported protest rocking Lagos APC.
“As much as this sensational piece of news might throw the opposition camp into premature celebration, the incident was a storm in a teacup.
“Since the resumption of office of the State Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, he has continuously sought the peaceful co-existence of all party members in every cradle and cranny of the state.
“It is on record that he has, at various times, been able to successfully reconcile warring party members across board to ensure cohesion.
“The incident today was about a meeting convened to reconcile the different factions of the party in Alimosho local government area which was unfortunately infiltrated by uninvited thugs with ulterior motives.
“We appreciate the security agencies for promptly bringing the situation under control.
“The victory of the progressives in Lagos State since the inception of this dispensation has been due to life-changing policies by our responsive and responsible government and strict compliance with party discipline.
“Lagos State APC has a time-tested mechanism for settling disputes and will not hesitate to wield the big stick if need be. The sacrifices of the founding fathers of the party to engender democracy cannot be sacrificed on the altar of indiscipline and intolerance.
“We acknowledge protests as an integral part of democracy, but it has to be within acceptable norms without infringing on the rights of others.”
Here is the link to the video:
https://x.com/TonyeBarcanista/status/1805341198644646037
