APC Primary Election: violence, chaos, delays mar exercise in Lagos as party releases disqualification list nationwide

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The House of Representatives primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State were on Saturday marred by violence, intimidation claims, late arrival of materials and widespread confusion across several constituencies, amid a tense contest for party tickets ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The exercise, already affected by postponement, suffered fresh disruptions as rival groups clashed in parts of the state and accreditation processes broke down in several polling centres.

In Mushin, violence broke out before voting commenced, forcing party members and supporters to flee. Security operatives later moved in, leading to the arrest of about 10 suspects linked to disturbances in Mushin and parts of Alimosho Local Government Area.

In Alimosho, especially around the Egbe axis, clashes among rival camps disrupted accreditation and delayed voting in several centres.

In Lagos Mainland, allegations of intimidation and voter suppression dominated the exercise, with party members accusing rival factions of disrupting accreditation in Makoko, Iwaya, Adekunle and Apapa Road.

In Somolu, suspected hoodlums reportedly attacked APC leaders and party members at Ward A and Ward B centres, forcing delegates to scamper for safety and halting proceedings temporarily.

Across several constituencies, late arrival of election materials further slowed the process, deepening frustration among aspirants and delegates.

Despite the disruptions, voting continued in some areas under tight security, although the exercise was largely characterised by tension and disorganisation across the state.

Meanwhile, the APC released a national list of House of Representatives aspirants who were marked “not cleared” following its screening exercise ahead of the primaries.

In a statement by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC said the affected aspirants were disqualified across several states including Ondo, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Kogi and Rivers after screening conducted in line with party guidelines.

However, no Lagos aspirant was included in the disqualification list released by the party.

The party also confirmed winners in some states, while noting disruptions in parts of Adamawa where election materials reportedly arrived late, delaying the commencement of voting.

The APC said the primaries remain part of preparations for the 2027 general elections.