AAC, ZLP, YPP, Others Protest LASIEC’s Charges for Local Council Election Participation

AAC, ZLP, YPP, Others Protest LASIEC’s Charges for Local Council Election Participation

A coalition of political parties under the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Lagos State has called on the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to scrap administrative charges imposed on candidates contesting in the upcoming local government elections slated for July 12.

The protest was led by five political parties—Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), African Action Congress (AAC), Young Progressives Party (YPP), All People’s Party (APP), and Accord Party—whose representatives staged a peaceful march to the LASIEC office on Monday, demanding the immediate suspension of the fees or face legal consequences.

According to LASIEC’s election guidelines, candidates are required to pay administrative fees of N150,000 for chairmanship aspirants, N75,000 for vice-chairmanship, and N50,000 for councillorship. However, female candidates and persons with disabilities are exempted. The payments are to be made into any Nigerian bank using a designated revenue code (33101) and agency code (77095) in favor of the Lagos State Government.

The protesting party leaders criticized the fees as unconstitutional and a barrier to political participation. Speaking on behalf of the group, Adekunle Mode-Adenipebi, Lagos State Chairman of ZLP and IPAC Organising Secretary, argued that LASIEC’s mandate is to conduct elections, not to generate revenue for the government.

“LASIEC is not a revenue-generating body. These fees are unjust and unconstitutional. Similar charges were abolished in recent local council elections in Ogun and Oyo states. We demand the immediate withdrawal of these levies,” Mode-Adenipebi stated.

He also compared LASIEC’s actions to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which does not impose such fees on aspirants contesting higher offices, including the presidency and National Assembly.

According to Mode-Adenipebi, political parties may impose charges internally, but it is inappropriate for an electoral body to do so, as it risks disenfranchising aspiring candidates, especially those with limited financial resources.

Echoing this concern, Dele Oladeji, Chairman of the Accord Party in Lagos, warned that many aspirants may be forced out of the race due to financial constraints. “LASIEC is asking for what many candidates simply cannot afford. If the commission does not reverse this, we will seek redress in court by Wednesday,” he said.

Other party leaders, including Abiola Adeyemi (APP), Ayoyinka Oni (AAC), and former IPAC Chairman Olusegun Mobolaji (YPP), also condemned the charges as undemocratic and exclusionary.

The demonstration began at Birrel Avenue in Sabo-Yaba and concluded at LASIEC’s premises. Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, no LASIEC official came forward to address the concerns raised by the group.

The parties insist that if LASIEC does not reverse its decision and refund candidates who have already paid, they will proceed with legal action to defend democratic participation.

Judge Utilized in 2019 to Hijack AAC Party Suspended, Sowore Reacts

Judge Utilized in 2019 to Hijack AAC Party Suspended, Sowore Reacts

Following the suspension of Justice Inyang Ekwo by the National Judicial Council (NJC) over misconduct, activist and former Presidential Candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has spoken out, stating that the judge was involved in the politically motivated attempt to hijack the party in 2019.

Justice Ekwo, according to Sowore, played a key role in an attempt to hijack the AAC party in 2019.

Sowore made it known that Justice Ekwo played a central role in the legal maneuver used by former Rivers State Governor, now FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike attempt to hijack the AAC. “Justice Inyang Ekwo was the judge utilized by Gov. (Now FCT Minister) Nyesom Wike in 2019 to hijack our party, the AAC. He’s brazen about his corruption,” Sowore said in a post on his social media handle.

He further described the broader state of Nigeria’s judiciary, especially at the Federal High Court in Abuja, as deeply compromised. “There are numerous judges in Nigeria… who are unfit to administer justice. The unfortunate reality is that they have caused irreparable damage to the justice system,” he said.

Sowore emphasized that it took three years of persistent legal battles to reclaim control of the AAC, crediting human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong for the victory.

Gombe Easter Tragedy: AAC Demands Investigation Into Billiri Truck Incident, Accuses Police of Cover-Up

Gombe Easter Tragedy: AAC Demands Investigation Into Billiri Truck Incident, Accuses Police of Cover-Up

The Gombe State Chapter of the African Action Congress (AAC) has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, demanding an immediate probe into the handling of the recent Easter tragedy in Billiri Local Government Area.

The party accused the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Billiri of shielding the driver responsible for the deadly incident and spreading false information to obstruct justice.

In a petition signed by the state chairman, Bobo Benson Bagwiba, and addressed to the Gombe State Commissioner of Police, the AAC expressed outrage over the DPO’s hasty and unverified claim that the accident was caused by a brake failure.

Copies of the petition were also sent to the Police Service Commission, the Zonal Assistant Inspector-General of Police, and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Gombe State.

The fatal incident, which occurred on April 21st during an Easter procession, saw a truck plow into a crowd of Christian worshippers, resulting in multiple deaths and numerous injuries.

According to the AAC, instead of conducting a thorough investigation, the DPO rushed to release a public statement attributing the crash to “suspected brake failure” without any technical assessment or expert analysis.

However, the narrative shifted days later on April 25th, when police formally charged the driver with causing death by dangerous and inconsiderate driving—effectively contradicting the initial claims.

The party criticized the DPO’s premature conclusion, arguing that it undermined the investigation, misled the public, and shielded the driver from immediate scrutiny. They further alleged that several eyewitnesses reported the driver intentionally targeted the procession, testimonies which the police allegedly ignored or failed to document properly.

“The DPO neglected basic investigative procedures, failed to secure the crime scene, preserve critical evidence, or uphold due process,” the petition said. “This amounts to dereliction of duty and gross misconduct.”

The AAC also accused the officer of breaching provisions of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, citing violations of Section 4 (general duties of the police), Section 24 (conduct of officers), Section 32(1) (accountability), and Section 66(1) (offenses by police officers).

Additionally, the petition argued that the DPO’s actions violated constitutional rights under Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which prioritizes citizens’ security and welfare, as well as Section 15(5), which mandates the elimination of corruption and abuse of power.

The party also referenced Section 39(1), which guarantees citizens the right to accurate information, criticizing the DPO for spreading falsehoods.

The AAC demanded the immediate redeployment of the Billiri DPO, disciplinary action in line with police service rules, an official public apology, and a comprehensive review of the police’s investigative failures regarding the case.

“This petition is not solely about punishing an officer; it is a call for justice, accountability, and institutional reform,” the AAC emphasized. “No police officer should be allowed to abuse their position. Justice demands transparency, and the people must trust that their safety will never be sacrificed for convenience or cover-ups.”

PRESS STATEMENT: THE AFRICAN ACTION CONGRESS, OGUN STATE DISTANCES ITSELF FROM THE IPAC ENDORSEMENT SEEKING TO RE-ELECT GOVERNOR DAPO ABIODUN

PRESS STATEMENT: THE AFRICAN ACTION CONGRESS, OGUN STATE DISTANCES ITSELF FROM THE IPAC ENDORSEMENT SEEKING TO RE-ELECT GOVERNOR DAPO ABIODUN

Our attention has been drawn to a post believed to be a press release emanating from the intra-party advisory council (IPAC) in Ogun state, wherein some elements endorsed the Governor for re-election.

We want to state unequivocally that the African Action Congress (AAC) is not part of such charade, as a separate party or as a member of IPAC. Our party is distinct in ideology and principles and would not endorse a Governor that does not represent any pro-people agenda.

 

Dapo Abiodun is one Governor who should be apologizing to Ogun state citizens and not campaigning. This is why we find it ridiculous that an advisory council who should actually act as a constellation of major opposing voices, would have anything to do with meeting the Governor, let alone endorsing him for re-election.

 

From dishing out crumbs as governance and littering the states with half-completed projects yet launched , the “contract percentage” Governor has failed woefully to deliver good governance to the people and should not be rewarded with another term.

 

The AAC seizes this medium to restate its commitment to stay the course and to assure the good people of Ogun State that help is on the way. Our candidate remains the indefatigable Mr HARRISON ADEYEMI and we urge every electorate who is tired of the misgovernance of Mr Dapo’s 4 ruinous years to vote the AAC.

Liberty is on the ballot.

 

Signed:

Ogundimu Aishat

 

State Publicity Secretary,

African Action Congress

 

Adesina Afolabi

State Chairman,

African Action Congress.

 

2/3/2023

Peace Committee Meeting: Sowore Protests Buhari’s Human Rights Abuses, Refuses To Stand Up For The Outgoing President

Peace Committee Meeting: Sowore Protests Buhari’s Human Rights Abuses, Refuses To Stand Up For The Outgoing President

The presidential candidate of African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore refused to stand up, amidst all the presidential candidates on their feets to honor the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mohammed Buhari while giving his closing remark.

 

The human rights defender said his refusal to stand up when Buhari was making his closing remark was a protest against the failure of the president of NIGERIA and his utter disregard for human rights and him being the worst President of Nigeria.

 

While other presidential candidates rose on their feets to honor the president, Sowore, the presidential candidate of African Action Congress stood his ground, sat down in protest.

Notice Of Suspension; AAC member, Ogun state..

Notice Of Suspension; AAC member, Ogun state..

Mr. Tanimowo Oyemade,

Address

 

Notice Of Suspension

 

Greetings from the Ogun State Working Committee of the African Action Congress, AAC. We hope this letter meets you well.

 

The state leadership of the party has been briefed about a very disturbing report of your anti-party activities as well as ploy to auction the party ticket for the highest of bidders. We were informed specifically of further plans to host a public event within the week where you will make such transactions in the name of our party. In the light of this, the state working committee in it’s emergency meeting resolved to place your membership of the party on suspension pending investigation by a fact finding panel which shall be constituted upon your receipt of this letter.

 

Forthwith, you are hereby suspended as a member of the African Action Congress, AAC. This suspension takes immediate effect, and hereby advised to refrain from further transactions on behalf of the party.

 

The general public is by this letter put on notice as the AAC will not be held liable for any dealings with Mr. Tanimowo Oyemade.

 

 

SIGNED:

 

*ADESINA AFOLABI*

AAC OGUN STATE PARTY CHAIRMAN

 

Secretary:

Sowore kicks as INEC raises concerns over 2023 elections

Sowore kicks as INEC raises concerns over 2023 elections

Omoyele Sowore made this known while stating his position on the statement released by inec, in an interview with sunrise daily channels tv. There is always a conspiracy against democracy in this country, he said.

“We had a meeting as party leaders with security agencies in the country at the IG’s office a few weeks ago and we did raise this issue but they as usual downplayed it.

“What has happened to Nigeria this year is that Nigeria has failed successfully in the security area. We found out that a lot of non-state actors are in control of territory.

“They deactivate the public interest in elections. There is always a secret agenda in every electioneering cycle. There have been rumors to have an interim government and now INEC is coming out to say the election may not hold as planned because of security issues.

“We have always known we have a security issue but having pushed Nigerians into a point where everybody is now ready for an election and now saying in a few days to the election that it won’t go as planned is basically to make people lose interest in the election itself.”

He said the ruling class have other plans not for the sake of Nigerians but their personal interests.

“The Nigerian presidential election has always been postponed for one reason or another, but this time around, I see no reason why the election should be postponed. Inec should be well prepared by now because. It is 46 days until the election. The election should go on as planned unless there is something beneath that has not been told to the public.”

He said there is more to this than the media eyes.
Proffering solutions to the security issue he said, “There is a problem of militancy, that is why we can’t sell more than a million barrels of crude on a daily basis.

There is a problem of agitation for nationhood in the southwest and southeast, banditry in the northeast, terrorism in the northwest and above all, there is also governmental terrorism sprouting from the ideal of killing people who participate in peaceful protests.”

He said he will look at all these areas as the president of Nigeria and bring out what will fit each peculiar security challenge.

“For southwest it will be dialogue, for the bandits it will be stick. For the militants it will be further dialogue on how to fix their environment and the issue that is making this militancy come together.”

He said, without solving the socio-economic problem of the people, we can’t get the kind of security that will be needed.

“The damage done by the government to its citizens is what we are reaping from. If you have done justice to the southeast after the civil war nobody would be agitating for Biafra.

The AAC presidential candidate said leadership must be applied in solving the dislocation in society. He also said any kind of terrorism that lasts more than 10 years requires more than shooting at people.

Speaking on his ambition, Omoyele Sowore said his political party led the transformational and innovative style of campaign. There are multidimensional ways of campaigning and that’s what his party has engaged in.

He also said the media doesn’t cover them as they do other ‘big pockets,’ he said he is relying on the people. “We are bringing ideas to bear on a political process. I am sure ideas would win one day in this country.

“Nigeria has a foundational problem that is why people are asking for restructuring. Nigeria is about to tip over if drastic decisions are not taken, Sowore said while addressing the issue of decision-making as the president.

“Creating a brand new constitution that will take into consideration, cutting down the governance by getting rid of the senate, right people would be put in charge of security and his government will aggressively pursue electricity.

“Within my few days in office, I want to sign contracts to put this country out of darkness and that would be by generating twenty thousand megawatts of electricity, he said.”

To put people out of poverty, we have to industrialize and produce, to produce we must have electricity. It is impossible to experience the industrial revolution without electricity. The rest with infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture to feed the nation would be adequately pursued and attained.

”Nigerians shouldn’t pay more for fuel”: Sowore on fuel subsidy.

”Nigerians shouldn’t pay more for fuel”: Sowore on fuel subsidy.

Nigerians shouldn’t pay more for fuel: Sowore on fuel subsidy.

The presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, has said: “Nigerians shouldn’t pay more for fuel and it should be their right”.

Sowore said this during an interview on Arise tv morning show while replying to a question on fuel subsidies. When asked if he would keep the subsidy despite the deficit budget that’ll be inherited.

He also made a revelation that the supposed subsidy on fuel is a fraud. According to Sowore, every country in the world is giving the best to their citizens.

“Norway has some of the best welfare for their citizens. Like free education, and free healthcare. Nigeria is the only country at this level of oil producing stage that is punishing its citizen with the lie of oil subsidy. What has not happened is to have a leadership in place that can check the fraud,” he said.

Sowore described many of the companies that are involved in subsidy removal in Nigeria as “scammers”. According to him, they’ve been proven to be scammers, adding that many of them are facing international sanctions, especially those in Switzerland and other places. “They have been made to pay huge fines to the US government when they are not even doing the kind of businesses they are doing in Nigeria,” Sowore said.

Sowore further said, “Even when you remove the subsidy, they’ll figure out a strategy again to come back and say they need more. They are holding the country by the jugular until their hands are removed and the country controls the resources. He said, he’ll nationalize the NNPC to follow up on that”.

Sowore said he would not remove but keep the subsidy despite the deficit budget that’ll be left by Buhari’s administration.

“What they parade as subsidy is how the economic cabals in the system have figured out how to get themselves paid for a job not done. Jonathan’s administration was forced to find out that those who were collecting subsidies were not delivering fuel to Nigeria. One of the badges claimed to be bringing subsidized fuel to Nigeria had sunk twenty years before. All these perpetrators were before the court, and none of the cases to my knowledge has reached conviction till today.

“Those of us who have that experience on the lies that have been told to cover up subsidy know it’s a lie that is told from time to time,” he added.

Suggesting a way forward, Sowore said to have the availability of these (fuel) products, the government should fix its own refineries instead of investing in private refineries like that of Dangote in Lagos.

He said: “According to the government, the only product that is subsidized is petrol. Even though diesel, kerosene, and aviation fuel are not subsidized, there is no effect any benefit from it. In fact not only that they can’t be found on a daily basis, but their prices also keep fluctuating”.

He concluded, “If the subsidy is removed without any plan to support the poor people of the country that means petrol will go to #1000 naira and people who are being paid #30,000 minimum wage wouldn’t be able to survive.

Government should not exist to make life miserable for the citizen. It should exist to find solutions to problems that are afflicting the populace. Government should not exist for palliatives but concrete leadership to bring about the planned development.”

My activism birthed Nigeria’s democracy

My activism birthed Nigeria’s democracy

The presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, speaking on the topic ‘Why youths don’t participate in Nigeria politics,’ in an interview with Super screen TV said
“A lot of politician lies and sugarcoat, that’s why I don’t like to be called a politician cause it makes me feel I’m part of them.”

He said he is different in character, he has made sacrifices and has scars to show for it. “Nigerian people gained democracy as a result of my activism. That was the most important thing when I was young. The goal was to drive the military out however, it is very disappointing that the democracy turned out to be fake.”

Sowore said the people that were driven out in the 90s are now back, citing the example of president Muhammad Buhari who was the head of state in 1984 and still the president in 2023.

“In 1925, young people created Nigerian youth movement to fight for Independents. People like herbert Macaulay, Okoli, and young women of then are not excluded. Over time, young people are being relegated to the background and now, young people are being engaged in thuggery,” Sowore said.

“Young people are running to abroad to find greener pastures. What society does to it’s young people is to educate them, provide another opportunity for people who are not interested in school, provide jobs, that’s how to get society developed,” he said.

Sowore said enforcing a digitized economy would tackle corruption and allow transparency and accountability.

SOLIDARITY CALL FOR POLLING UNIT CANVASSERS

SOLIDARITY CALL FOR POLLING UNIT CANVASSERS

Dear Compatriots,
As we draw near to the 2023 General elections, the Omoyele Sowore Presidential Campaign Committee of the African Action Congress (AAC) seizes this medium to reach out to all lovers of liberation home and abroad, who are willing to join our already mobilized army of canvassers across over 176,000 polling units in the country. Our canvassers would be armed with the correct ideas with which they will reach out to electorates, before and during elections across these units.

Complaining about the situation in the country is not enough. It’s time to do the work of liberation. Join the community of revolutionary doers today.

See flier for details.
AAC-TakeItBack-Action

Signed :
Sanyaolu Juwon
for Directorate of Mobilization