The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Agege, Lagos, is embarking on a crucial mission of unity and reconciliation following the recent party primaries for the upcoming local government elections slated for July 12th. The party leadership recognizes the potential for discord stemming from the primaries and is proactively addressing concerns to ensure a united front for the impending elections. Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has taken the lead, appealing to aggrieved members to prioritize the party’s overall well-being over individual disappointments. Acknowledging the inherent right of members to express dissatisfaction, Obasa emphasized the importance of channeling such sentiments constructively, without jeopardizing the party’s stability. His message centers on the understanding that not everyone can secure a leadership position and that accepting the outcome of the primaries is essential for the party’s cohesive functioning.
The party’s message of unity resonates with the understanding that the local government elections are not just an isolated event but a critical stepping stone towards the more significant 2027 general elections. The APC views the upcoming polls as a litmus test, an opportunity to gauge their electoral strength and identify areas for improvement. A strong showing in the local government elections would serve as a powerful indicator of their preparedness for the 2027 elections, boosting morale and providing valuable insights into voter dynamics. The emphasis is on maximizing voter turnout, surpassing the numbers recorded in the 2023 elections, to solidify their position and instill confidence in their electoral prospects.
Obasa’s call for reconciliation extends to a direct appeal for members to actively engage with those who feel marginalized by the primary process. Rather than alienating disgruntled members, the party advocates for a proactive approach, reaching out, listening to concerns, and fostering a sense of inclusivity. This emphasis on dialogue and understanding underscores the party’s commitment to building a strong and united front, where every member feels valued and heard. The message is clear: past friendships and camaraderie should be leveraged to mend any rifts and reinforce the bonds that tie the party together.
Further bolstering the party’s stance, Ganiyu Egunjobi, the Executive Chairman of Agege Local Government, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the primaries, highlighting the candidates’ emergence as a true reflection of the people’s will. He views the current gathering as a platform to formally present the chosen candidates to the party members and galvanize support for their campaigns. Learning from past experiences, particularly the outcome of the last Lagos election, the party is determined to mobilize voters effectively and secure a decisive victory. Egunjobi also addressed allegations of nepotism concerning Obasa’s son’s candidacy, vehemently defending his right to contest and dismissing such claims as unfounded. He emphasized that the younger Obasa is exercising his constitutional rights and his academic qualifications further validate his suitability for public office.
Johnson Sunday Babatunde, Executive Chairman of Orile Agege Local Council Development Area, echoed the call for unity, stressing the importance of supporting the party’s chosen candidates. The large turnout at the presentation event is perceived as a strong indicator of popular support for the candidates. Babatunde emphasized the resilience of the APC, acknowledging the current national challenges but positioning the party as a learning organization, capable of adapting and overcoming adversity. He also pointed to recent economic developments, such as the drop in rice prices, as a sign of positive change and an indication of the government’s efforts to address economic hardships. He urged both winners and losers of the primaries to exhibit humility and sportsmanship, promising that the party would explore avenues to compensate those who did not secure nominations.
Afolabi Ayantayo, Lagos State Commissioner for Establishment, further reinforced the party’s position, dismissing allegations of candidate imposition. He emphasized the adherence to established procedures and the transparent nature of the primaries, highlighting the significant turnout at the event as evidence of the people’s unified support for the chosen candidates. This collective voice from the APC leadership in Agege underlines the party’s unwavering commitment to unity, reconciliation, and a strong showing in the forthcoming local government elections, ultimately laying the groundwork for success in the 2027 general elections. The focus remains on healing divisions, embracing inclusivity, and presenting a united front to the electorate.
