AAC Lagos Joins Protest Against Political Violence, Accuses APC Government Of Destroying Opposition Posters | Sahara Reporters
The AAC said political contests should not be treated as warfare, stressing the need for peaceful elections and respect for democratic choices.
The Lagos State chapter of the Africa Action Congress (AAC) has joined other political parties and stakeholders in condemning alleged political violence, thuggery and the destruction of opposition campaign materials in the state.
The party, in a message accompanying a campaign banner, called on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to stop the removal and destruction of opposition posters and billboards, urging political actors to allow Lagos residents to freely choose their preferred candidates.
The AAC said political contests should not be treated as warfare, stressing the need for peaceful elections and respect for democratic choices.
The party’s message read: “AAC Lagos joins other parties today to say NO to political violence and destruction of campaign materials in Lagos.”
It added: “APC must stop tearing opposition posters and billboards. Stop political thuggery.”
The party further urged political actors to allow voters to determine the direction of the state through their ballots.
“Election is not war. Let Lagosians decide their future. Aluta Continua!”the AAC said.
The banner displayed by the party carried the Africa Action Congress logo and the messages: “Protect the Vote, Protect Democracy,” “Peaceful Elections, Free Choice, Stronger Democracy,” “Say No to Political Thuggery,” “Let the People Decide,” “Election Is Not War,” and “Say No to Political Intolerance.”
The AAC’s call comes amid concerns raised by opposition parties and political actors over alleged intimidation, destruction of campaign materials and other forms of political intolerance during electioneering in Lagos.
The party maintained that political competition should be conducted peacefully, with all candidates and parties given the opportunity to campaign without interference.
It also called on voters and political actors to protect the integrity of the electoral process by rejecting violence and allowing citizens to freely express their political preferences.
“Protect the vote, protect democracy. Let the people decide,” the party reiterated.