An Abeokuta-based broadcast journalist and politician, Olalekan Shoyinka, has decried what he describes as the hypocrisy and selective outrage being exhibited by loyalists of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over alleged irregularities in the recently held chairmanship primaries in Lagos State.
In a strongly worded statement titled “APC Lagos Chairmanship Primaries and the Hypocrisy of Selective Outrage,” Shoyinka expressed concern over the integrity of Nigeria’s political culture, warning that partisan loyalty must never come before national interest.
“What we are witnessing is not just an internal party dispute—it is a reflection of a deeper problem in our political culture,” Shoyinka said.
He condemned APC loyalists for raising alarm over electoral malpractice in their party’s primaries, stating that many of them had previously supported or excused similar misconduct during general elections.
“It is both hypocritical and intellectually dishonest for APC loyalists to suddenly cry foul when they have in the past cheered or justified irregularities. This selective outrage undermines any claim to true democratic principles,” he stated.
According to Shoyinka, democratic values must be upheld at all levels, starting from how political parties conduct their internal affairs. He stressed that integrity must be consistent and not based on convenience.
“We cannot celebrate flawed processes when they favour us and then denounce them only when they no longer serve our interests. A credible democracy begins with consistency in principles,” he added.
The broadcaster emphasized that the struggle for electoral transparency should be unwavering and not dictated by partisan advantage.
“Loyalty to a political party should never come at the expense of national interest. True patriotism lies in holding all institutions, including our preferred political parties, accountable,” he said.
Shoyinka concluded by urging Nigerians to uphold truth and integrity, even when inconvenient: “Only your loyalty to Nigeria is patriotism—not the one you have for your party.”
