A Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, CSOs, in Kosofe Local Council has cautioned political actors and supporters against actions capable of triggering violence or unrest following the controversy surrounding the All Progressives Congress, APC, House of Representatives primary election in Kosofe Federal Constituency.
The coalition, in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by Comrade Alex Omotehinse, urged aggrieved parties to seek redress only through established party structures or courts of competent jurisdiction where necessary.
According to the group, grievances arising from the conduct or outcome of the primary election should not be used as grounds for self-help, inflammatory statements, or acts capable of disrupting public peace.
Omotehinse stressed that the integrity of the democratic process must be protected through lawful, peaceful, and transparent means.
He also called on security agencies to remain vigilant and prevent any act capable of causing tension or instability within the constituency.
“From available information and declarations made at the conclusion of the exercise, Mayor Dele Oshinowo was announced by the designated returning officer as the duly elected candidate and flag bearer of the APC for the 2027 general elections,” the statement read.
The coalition, however, expressed concern over what it described as conflicting claims emerging from the camp of the incumbent member of the House of Representatives, Mrs Kafilat Ogbara.
“However, the Coalition notes the contradictory position emanating from the camp of the incumbent MHR Mrs Kafilat Ogbara, which initially laid claim to victory and has subsequently asserted that the election did not hold.
“This inconsistency is both troubling and capable of generating confusion, tension, and unnecessary political heat within the Kosofe Federal Constituency,” Omotehinse said.
He noted that the coalition, as a pro-democracy and human rights advocacy group with a history of involvement in Nigeria’s democratic struggles, considered it necessary to warn against narratives or actions capable of overheating the political atmosphere in Kosofe and Lagos State in general.
The coalition therefore appealed to all aspirants, supporters, and stakeholders to demonstrate restraint, political maturity, and commitment to peace in the interest of the constituency.
“We strongly warn against any attempt to incite violence, mobilise unrest, or create an atmosphere of insecurity within the Kosofe Federal Constituency,” the statement added.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to justice, fairness, democratic accountability, and peaceful political engagement, noting that it would continue to monitor developments surrounding the primary election.