Lagos APC Smashes ‘Anointed Candidate’ Rumors; Chairman Ojelabi Vows Level Playing Field for All Aspirants as 2027 Fever Heats Up

In a move that has “flipped the script” on traditional Lagos politics, the state chapter of the APC has sent a clear message to all its members: the era of “imposition” is over. On Thursday, April 2, 2026, State Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi addressed a packed hall of party faithful, delivering a “Solution” to the growing anxiety over who will fly the party’s flag in the next general elections.

“I want to state categorically that the leadership of the APC in Lagos has not anointed anyone for any position,” Ojelabi declared. He noted that the rumors of “special candidates” were being spread by those who want to “shortcut the democratic process.” By opening the floor to all qualified members, the APC aims to re-energize its grassroots base and ensure that the most popular and competent candidates emerge through transparent primaries.

This announcement comes at a critical time, as several high-profile names have already begun underground campaigning for the 2027 governorship and legislative seats. Ojelabi cautioned that the name of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should not be “taken in vain” by aspirants looking for undue advantage. He reminded the gathering that the President himself is a product of a competitive primary and expects nothing less from his home state.

As the meeting concluded, the party leadership called for a “Renewed Hope” in the power of the ballot, urging aspirants to focus on their manifestos rather than their connections. With the “no anointment” policy now in place, the political atmosphere in Lagos is expected to become even more competitive, as veterans and newcomers alike prepare for what many are calling the most “unpredictable” primary season in the state’s history.