By Taiwo Scholarstica
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that its chairman was harassed during a protest at the party’s secretariat.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Senior Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Lagos APC Chairman, Ayaba Omobola Akingbehin, described the claims as misleading and urged the public to disregard them.
According to the statement, the party chairman was neither molested nor harassed during the incident. The APC further clarified that the chairman was not present at the party secretariat when the protest took place.
The party acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens and party members to express their grievances through lawful means. However, it stressed that any form of protest must be carried out in accordance with the law, while maintaining public order, party discipline and the overall interest of the party.
The APC also noted that its primary election process had been concluded and reminded aggrieved members that established internal mechanisms already exist for resolving complaints arising from the exercise.
The party encouraged dissatisfied members and stakeholders to make use of these channels rather than resort to actions that could create tension within the party.
According to the statement, the available dispute-resolution structures were designed to ensure fairness, unity and the continued progress of the APC.
The party further appealed to members and supporters to remain calm and avoid statements or actions capable of escalating tensions or distorting the facts surrounding the protest.
It also called on the media, party faithful and the general public to rely only on information released through official party channels.
The APC reiterated its commitment to maintaining unity within its ranks and ensuring that concerns raised by members are addressed through appropriate and lawful procedures.