Nigerian Local Elections: Agege Chairman Endorses Speaker’s Son Amid Controversy

In a move that has sparked both support and criticism, Ganiyu Egunjobi, Chairman of Agege Local Government Area, has publicly endorsed Olamilekan Obasa, son of Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate for the upcoming local council elections. This endorsement comes despite allegations of imposition and manipulation in the APC primaries held on May 10, which have led to tensions in Agege and Orile-Agege.

Speaking to journalists, Egunjobi expressed his support for Obasa’s candidacy, stating that the young politician deserves to succeed him. He also addressed the controversy surrounding the primaries, dismissing allegations of imposition and manipulation. "I think the reactions in those quarters where they are shouting ‘imposition’ is in the character of politicians in our clime," Egunjobi said. "I’m sure if the results had gone their way, they would be lavishing praise on the electoral process."

The APC primaries have been marred by controversy, with some members accusing Speaker Obasa of installing loyalists and family members as flagbearers for the July 12 council elections. However, Egunjobi has defended the selection process, asserting that it was transparent and legitimate. He also criticized the protest that followed, describing it as a staged display orchestrated by political opportunists.

Egunjobi further stated that some disgruntled aspirants, such as Sola Osolana and Bukola Sofidiya, lacked the moral standing and constitutional backing to vie for the ticket, having only recently re-joined the party. He also hinted at the involvement of external influencers, mentioning a serving senator from Ogun State and a three-time House of Assembly member in the area.

The candidacy of Speaker Obasa’s son has been a subject of controversy, with some accusing the Speaker of imposing his family members on the party. However, Egunjobi has defended the young Obasa’s qualifications, describing him as highly capable and drawing parallels with established political dynasties in Nigeria and the United States. "This is someone that is well-read, a PhD student for that matter, who has been touching lives in Agege long before now. In fact, he deserves to succeed me," Egunjobi said.

As the local council elections approach, the controversy surrounding the APC primaries is likely to continue. However, with Egunjobi’s endorsement, Obasa’s candidacy has received a significant boost. The situation highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics, where family ties, party loyalty, and personal ambition often intersect. As the people of Agege and Orile-Agege prepare to go to the polls, they will be watching closely to see how these dynamics play out.