Calls for Fairness Grow Louder in Agege Ahead of Chairmanship Election
As the July 2025 local government elections approach, Civil Society Group and concerned stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Agege have issued strong appeals for a transparent and inclusive nomination process.
At the heart of their concern is the alleged imposition of candidates—particularly the rumored endorsement of Abdulganiyu Obasa, son of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa—as the APC’s sole flag-bearer for the chairmanship seat.
In separate but unified voices, both the Agege Development Forum and a coalition of APC loyalists have condemned what they describe as a growing trend of political favoritism and marginalization of qualified candidates.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Mr. Taiye Onalaja, leader of the Agege Development Forum, decried what he called “the alarming rate of impositions” in the run-up to the election.
“We shouldn’t be selfish while serving the people,” he stated. “Residents must be allowed to vote and be voted for, in accordance with the constitution.
When political positions are monopolized by certain families or cliques, that is undemocratic and unacceptable.”
Onalaja emphasized the need for a level playing field that allows every interested and qualified aspirant to contest.
“The party and its leaders must create an open environment where candidates can showcase their popularity and commitment to public service without being sidelined by internal politics,” he added.
Onalaja warned that allowing Abdulganiyu Obasa to run unopposed would undermine the credibility of the election and weaken the democratic process within the party.
“Our community deserves leadership based on merit and dedication, not on family ties,” she said. “There are many capable individuals in Agege who are ready to serve.”
We want and demand APC stakeholders ensure all qualified candidates are given equal access to nomination forms and the opportunity to campaign freely.
“This election must reflect the will of the people, not the preferences of a powerful few,” he said.
He said that the group wanted to prevent a situation where one family or political bloc decides the future of an entire community.
According to him, to counteract these concerns, the coalition announced plans to mobilize the community through outreach programmes, engagement with local leaders, and voter education initiatives.
“We are committed to ensuring that Agege community enters this election with integrity, fairness, and genuine public participation,” he said.
