Lagos State Local Government Elections: Labour Party Gears Up with 26 Chairmanship Candidates
The political landscape in Lagos State is buzzing with activity as the July 12 Local Government elections draw near. The Labour Party (LP), under the leadership of Julius Abure, is actively preparing for the polls, having recently concluded its primaries. The party’s state chairperson, Pastor Dayo Ekong, announced that 26 chairmanship candidates have emerged from the primaries held across the state, signaling the party’s commitment to contesting a significant portion of the available positions. This development comes amidst reports of factionalism within the LP in Lagos, a matter that the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) is currently addressing with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). While LASIEC has acknowledged the existence of three distinct factions, only the Abure-led group has formally invited the commission to observe its primary elections, further solidifying its position as the recognized faction within the electoral process.
The LP’s strategic approach to the elections is evident in its decision to field candidates in only 26 of the 57 available council seats. This calculated move reflects the party’s assessment of its strengths and opportunities in specific areas, focusing resources on constituencies where it believes it has the highest potential for success. Pastor Ekong explained that this decision was based on strategic considerations, aiming to maximize the party’s impact on the electoral outcome. Among the councils where the LP will not be fielding candidates are Ikeja, Surulere, Agege, Igbogbo-Baiyeku, Lagos Island West, Lagos Island East, and Ajeromi-Ifelodin. The primary election for Oshodi/Isolo Local Government Area is yet to be conducted, but the party intends to field a candidate there, bringing the total number of contested seats to 27. This selective approach demonstrates the LP’s pragmatic approach to the elections, prioritizing strategic deployment of resources over contesting every available position.
The primaries, conducted on Friday, witnessed the emergence of several notable individuals as LP flagbearers. Among them are Mr. Seyi Ipinlaye, a former Secretary to Amuwo-Odofin Local Government, who secured the party’s ticket for the same council. Mr. Oluwafemi Fadairo emerged victorious in Ojokoro Local Council Development Area (LCDA), while Mr. Abudu Akinlola claimed the Ojo LG ticket. In Oriade LCDA, Biola Samson emerged unopposed, and Dr. Hassan Ademola won the primary in Itire-Ikate LCDA. The primaries also produced candidates in various other LGs and LCDAs, demonstrating the breadth of the party’s participation in the upcoming elections. The selection of these candidates marks a significant step in the LP’s electoral preparations, showcasing the individuals who will represent the party’s platform and vision in their respective constituencies.
The LP primaries witnessed a mix of closely contested races and unopposed selections, reflecting the varying dynamics within different constituencies. Candidates who emerged victorious expressed their gratitude to party members and delegates for their support and pledged to represent their constituents effectively. The overall atmosphere of the primaries was described as peaceful and transparent, fostering confidence in the legitimacy of the process. The party leadership expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the primaries, highlighting the commitment to free, fair, and credible elections. The successful conduct of the primaries is a positive development for the LP, demonstrating its organizational capabilities and commitment to democratic processes. The party’s ability to conduct peaceful and transparent primaries sets a positive tone for its participation in the upcoming elections.
Reports from various locations, including Amuwo-Odofin LGA, Ifako-Ijaiye, Ojo LG, and Ojokoro LCDA, confirmed the peaceful and orderly conduct of the primaries. The electoral committees oversaw the process diligently, ensuring adherence to established guidelines. In Amuwo-Odofin, Mr. Chigozie Ezue, the chairman of the LP Electoral Committee, declared Mr. Ipinlaye the winner after a closely contested race. Mr. Ipinlaye expressed his excitement and assured delegates of his commitment to serving the people of Amuwo-Odofin. He outlined his vision for the council, emphasizing improvements in infrastructure and quality of life for residents. Mr. Ipinlaye’s victory and subsequent address reflect the party’s focus on local issues and its commitment to addressing the needs of constituents.
The absence of LASIEC officials at the primaries raised some questions, but the LP maintained that the commission had been duly invited. Despite this, the party remained confident in the legitimacy of its primaries and expressed its determination to contest the elections vigorously. The LP’s confidence in its electoral prospects stems from the strong performance it recorded in the 2023 general elections, where it gained significant ground in various constituencies. Building on this momentum, the party is optimistic about its chances in the local government elections, aiming to translate its growing popularity into electoral success. The party’s focus on local issues and its commitment to grassroots engagement are key elements of its electoral strategy, aiming to connect with voters and build a strong foundation for future electoral contests.
