The Forum of Local Government Area Chairmen of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos State has called on the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to respect the outcome of its governorship primary election and avoid any form of candidate imposition.

In a communiqué signed by the forum’s Chairman and Secretary, Messrs Anaere Ugochukwu and Oluwabukola Okeowo, the group warned that any attempt to override the will of party members could weaken internal democracy and damage the party’s credibility in the state.

The chairmen expressed concern over what they described as emerging attempts to impose a candidate contrary to the wishes expressed during the primary election, stressing that such actions could trigger internal divisions.]

They reaffirmed their confidence in the leadership of the Lagos State ADC Chairman, Mr George Ashiru, and the State Executive Committee, noting that grassroots engagement remains central to the party’s growth.

According to the communiqué, the strength of any political organisation depends on its adherence to democratic principles and respect for the collective will of its members.

“The votes and collective will of party members must remain sacred and should never be substituted by administrative or procedural decisions that undermine confidence in the party,” the statement read.

The forum added that the party’s electoral future in Lagos State depends heavily on the confidence of its members and supporters, warning that disregard for due process could alienate its grassroots base.

It urged the NWC and the National Secretariat to urgently review concerns arising from the governorship primary, insisting that the party must act in line with its constitution.

“We respectfully call on the National Secretariat and National Working Committee of the ADC to urgently review the issues arising from the Lagos Governorship Primary,” the statement added.

The chairmen further appealed for fairness and internal justice, stressing that decisions must reflect the genuine mandate of party members.

They warned that failure to respect the outcome of the primary could undermine party unity and weaken its electoral prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Any decision that fails to reflect the genuine wishes of members risks alienating the grassroots base that has sustained and expanded the party over the years,” the communiqué stated.

The forum maintained that the ADC has a strong opportunity to position itself as a major political force in Lagos State if internal democracy is upheld and party processes are respected. (The Sun)