The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Telecom masts, others in Epe council not sold, says chairperson

    Telecom masts, others in Epe council not sold, says chairperson

    The Chairman, Epe Local Government, Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, has said allegations of illegal sale of government property including disused telecom masts and generators within the council premises are figments of the imagination of her detractors.

    In an interview in Lagos, she said the disused items were constituting nuisance and environmental hazards, adding that they were removed to prevent any health challenges to the staff of the council.

    She said: “The allegations surrounding the sale of government properties, including telecommunications masts and generators, are entirely false. These items had deteriorated over time and become hazardous within the council premises. After obtaining the necessary approvals from the relevant ministry, they were safely removed to prevent further risks to staff members.

    “Regarding the alleged involvement of an “Aboki” or “Mallam” in the removal process, the individual in question merely assisted in clearing debris from the council premises at the request of the Supervisor for Environment. No financial transactions or negotiations took place regarding the sale of any government property. The misunderstanding arose from a lack of clear communication by those involved.”

    Princess Animashaun said other allegations of financial mismanagement, certificate forgery, and plagiarism are figments of the imaginations of the people bent on dragging her reputation in the mud, adding that they are largely motivated politics.

    Read Also: Revisiting polytechnic education in Nigeria (2)

    Responding to financial mismanagement allegations, she said: “My administration has consistently provided stewardship reports to the public, ensuring transparency in the management of public funds. Additionally, financial monitoring agencies responsible for overseeing public allocations have never raised any concerns about our financial dealings. If there were any mismanagement, the appropriate authorities would have taken action against me. I urge the public to seek verification from the relevant institutions regarding the proper management of funds under my leadership.”

    The council chairperson also dismissed allegations of certificate forgery as false. According to her, “The screening authorities responsible for verifying the credentials of elected officials thoroughly examined my certificates before I assumed office. If there had been any discrepancies, I would not have been cleared to contest in the first place. I encourage the public to verify my credentials through the appropriate screening bodies for clarity.”

    She said she was also accused of plagiarising former Lagos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola SAN. She said the quote is a globally recognised quote that can be used by anyone to illustrate a point. “The claim of plagiarism is, therefore, baseless and untrue,” she said, adding that her commitment to serve her people remained unshaken.

    “As the first female chairman in the history of Epe Division, I have worked tirelessly for the progress of our community.

    “However, like Oliver Twist, I am committed to doing even more because I am a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

    “It is evident that these baseless accusations are politically motivated, aimed at discrediting my administration and jeopardising my bid for a second term. However, leadership is ordained by God, not by human schemes. Attempts to tarnish my reputation for political gain will not succeed,” she said.

  • LASIEC in race towards council election

    LASIEC in race towards council election

    All eyes are on the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to release the timetable for the forthcoming local government elections in the state. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO examines the electoral commission’s preparations

    The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) is on the hot seat for obvious reason. To conduct any election in Lagos, one of the most cosmopolitan states in West Africa, is a herculean task that must be diligently carried out.

    Members of the commission were always carefully selected since the days of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Governor of Lagos State.

    So, it wasn’t being sheer luck that the commission has delivered its mandate over the years.

    History beckons on the 63-year-old retired justice, Mrs Mobolanle-Okikiolu-Ighile, to replicate and even surpass the achievements of her predecessors, who once chaired the commission.

    Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile as she’s fondly referred to retired from the public service in 2022 at the age of 60 years. She joined a private law firm where she worked alongside other retired judges to offer consultations, especially in mediation and arbitration.

    Her passion to continuing to serve the public received a big boost when Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu appointed her last year as the Chairman of LASIEC.

    The governor urged the new board members to take advantage of innovative technologies to drive development.

    He said: “I charge you to uphold the highest standards of professionalism. You are the new role models for the entire public service. Your conduct both on and off duty must reflect the values of integrity and transparency.

    ”Accountability must not be far away from you, and we believe this is the minimum that Lagos State demands of you,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    According to him, credible elections are the bedrock of sustainable development, and we will continue to support LASIEC in fulfilling its mandate.

    The governor charged the team to prioritise transparency, fairness, and impartiality in coordinating the upcoming local government elections across Lagos State.

    Sanwo-Olu highlighted tools such as biometric voter registration and online platforms as vital to preventing fraud and improving voter education.

    Read Also: PROFILE: Meet new Rivers Sole Administrator Vice Admiral Ibas

    While appreciating Mr Governor for looking towards her direction to lead the commission, Justice Okikiolu-Ighile (rtd) in a recent interview stated that appointments like these aren’t something you apply for because they come with their own unique challenges.

    She was quoted as saying: “I was honoured and grateful when I was appointed in July 2024 as Chairman of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), and I returned from my holiday to take up the role. I see this appointment as a call to service, and I don’t take it lightly. The previous election cycle ended in 2021, and the next one will be in 2025. During that period, there was a lack of leadership, and we’re now working hard to get back on track. We’ve already started our work, and we’re determined to make a difference.

    “Lagos State is a large, complex place with over 15,000 polling units. It’s a huge responsibility, but we’re doing everything we can to ensure a smooth process.”

    True to her words, Justice Okikiolu-Ighile (rtd) alongside other commissioners – Mr Oladele Adekanye; Mr Akeem Durojaye; Mr Olumide Metileku; Mr Habeeb Ayileru and the Secretary, Samson Ajibade – have kicked the ground running since their inauguration by Governor Sanwo-Olu on January 10.

    Her team reaffirmed commitment and readiness to conduct the Local Government elections in the state during tours to many local governments

    In Ikorodu, Justice Okikiolu-Ighile (rtd) said the commission would soon engage stakeholders on voters’ education so as to encourage the public to come out en masse to vote during the elections.

    The commission, she said, will organise orientation programme to educate the public on how to vote if they have relocated.

    “I urge the public to also visit the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) portal to get things done properly before the date of the election. This is to enable them to exercise their franchise on that day,” she said.

    At Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area, the commission chief has lauded the council boss, Dr Ahmed Apatira, for its proactive preparedness in ensuring a seamless and well-coordinated electoral process.

    She urged the council chairman to sustain the existing peace and stability within the council before, during, and after the elections.

    She emphasised that maintaining political tranquility was critical to fostering public confidence in the electoral system and ensuring voters could freely exercise their rights.

    Justice Okikiolu-Ighile added that engagements of LASIEC with local governments across the state were designed to evaluate their preparedness and identify areas where further support might be necessary.

    She reaffirmed the commitment of LASIEC to conducting a transparent, inclusive and credible electoral process.

    “We call on the council boss to sustain the existing peace and harmony before, during, and after the elections. The commission’s visit is designed to assess the council’s election preparedness and foster stronger collaboration between LASIEC and the LCDA. This is as part of efforts to ensure a credible, free and fair electoral process ahead of the 2025 local government polls. The visit was aimed at assessing the council’s readiness for the forthcoming elections and strengthening collaboration between LASIEC and the LCDA,” she said.

    The LASIEC Chairman also applauded the provision of a fully equipped office space and other essential materials, describing the efforts as crucial to enhancing the operational efficiency of electoral officers.

    She also said that the visit centered on strengthening voter education, improving electoral logistics and ensuring security during the elections.

    Having satisfied with what she has seen in some local government visited, the commission’s boss, however, expressed its readiness to hold the local government elections across the council areas when she led her team to Isolo Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

    Justice Okikiolu-Ighile affirmed that LASIEC is ready to carry out its duties assuring that the election will be free and credible.

    She went on to task the council authority on intensive voters’ education to complement the commission’s effort in eradicating or keeping voters’ apathy at the barest minimum.

    She appreciated the council helmsman for the pleasant reception.

    Isolo LCDA Chairman Adebayo Olasoju, congratulated the retired justice and the commission members on their appointments to steer the electoral body.

    He relayed the earnest anticipation of contestants alike in the council area for election guidelines and modalities.

    The council boss emphasised the importance of the electoral body to the continued existence and effectiveness of local governments.

    He assured of maximum cooperation from all and sundry in the forthcoming polls.

    Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government Wasiu Adesina, said his council had also put in place machineries for conducting hitch-free election in the LG.

    “I want to appreciate the commission for their preparation. Over time, Ikorodu LG with its seven wards has been known for safe, hitch-free and credible election processes.

    “My administration will not leave any stone unturned to ensure that this legacy is maintained and every electorate given the opportunity to exercise their franchise,” he said.

    Adesina urged residents who had not registered for their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) to go out and register, adding that mini buses would be provided by the council to convey people living far away from their polling units.

    Vice Chairman of Itire-Ikate LCDA, Mrs Yetunde Jimba reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to facilitating a smooth election and fostering seamless collaboration with the electoral umpire.

    Jimba assured LASIEC of the administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a smooth and fair election.

    She reiterated the council’s readiness to collaborate closely with the commission in achieving a seamless electoral process.

    Jimba further commented LASIEC for its proactive approach to election management, pledging the council’s full cooperation with the electoral body.

    The vice chairman added that the Itire-Ikate LCDA remains dedicated to creating an enabling environment where both electoral officers and voters could participate in an open, transparent and fair electoral exercise.

    She reaffirmed the council’s shared responsibility in upholding the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that all necessary mechanisms were in place for a smooth election.

    “As part of efforts to ensure a credible, free, and fair electoral process ahead of the 2025 elections, LASIEC, under the leadership of Justice Ighile, paid a working visit to our council aimed at strengthening collaboration between LASIEC and the LCDA,” she noted.

    Meanwhile, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), an umbrella body of all political parties in the state, has urged LASIEC to promptly release guidelines for the forthcoming local government election.

    Its Chairperson, Mrs Temilola Akinade, said timely release of election guidelines would enable parties to adequately prepare for the election

    She said that members of all political parties in the state were impatiently expecting the guidelines.

    “We are waiting impatiently to hear from LASIEC, to see its plans and programmes for the council election to enable leaderships of the various political parties to know what to plan on. The commission should round off its activities on time to avoid poor preparation by political parties,” she said.

    According to her, political parties should have ample time to plan and campaign for the election.

    “We should not for any reason, have less than three months for campaign activities,” she added.

  • Isolo Council chair gives 15-year-old Quran competition winner N1m

    Isolo Council chair gives 15-year-old Quran competition winner N1m

    The Chairman of Isolo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Adebayo Olasoju, has given N1 million to Master Ridwan Isiaq, the 15-year-old Quran competition winner.

    Master Isiaq emerged winner during the 5th Annual Quranic Competition in honour of the late Alhaja Wasilat Ayinde-Marshal, daughter of Fuji maestro, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal.

    The competition, jointly organised by Ilerioluwa Organisation and Penckers Schools, was held at the school premises, Isolo.

    The highly competitive event saw young Quran reciters challenging themselves in Quranic memorisation and melodious recitation.

    Isiaq, in the first category, beat Mu’az Bada and Yusuf Abdul-Muqsit, to second and third, respectively. The runners-up smiled home with N500,000 and N250,000 each, while other participants went home with N50,000 each.

    The second category where candidates contest for voice sonority saw Mustopha Ajibola AlBaazily and Al-Amin Mas’ud sharing the first spot, while Adam Abdullah and Abdusalam Ali came second and third, respectively, winning N500,000, N250,000, and N150,000.

    Other attendees, mostly students of Daaru Dawat Wal-Irshad Islamic & Arabic Institute, also went home with mouthwatering prizes such as cash gifts, 10kg Bags of Rice, Ankara fabrics and other items. Olasoju, who is the sole sponsor of the event, explained that the programme was designed to promote the legacy of piety, reverence to Almighty Allah, love, and altruism of the late daughter of the Fuji maestro, as well as to encourage young Muslims to seek knowledge of Allah.

    Read Also: IWD 2025: BAT Nigeria reaffirms commitment to gender equity in leadership

    He congratulated the winners and all the participants, reiterating that the competition was meant to encourage their zeal to draw closer to Allah and be exemplary to their peers.

    The event featured a special Fidau prayer for the late Wasilat, as well as for the late Osolo of Isolo, Oba Kabiru  Agbabiaka, who graced the event and featured prominently last year.

    Chairmen of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Fatai Ayoola and Iba LCDA, Yisa Jubril, praised Olasoju for sustaining his efforts in organising the event every year and expressed their delight in contributing to its success this year.

  • Fed Govt to tackle insecurity with LGA Proof of Address system

    Fed Govt to tackle insecurity with LGA Proof of Address system

    The Federal Government has promised to collaborate with the states, local governments and stakeholders to address the issue of insecurity in Nigeria through the Local Government Proof of Address System.

    The government said it is activating a system that will be implemented across all 774 local government areas to provide every resident with a verifiable and secure address while serving as an essential tool for administrative processes in both the public and private sectors.

     Speaking at the South West stakeholders sensitisation meeting for the initiative, held at Protea Hotel, Ikeja, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr George Akume, said that the initiative is a step toward strengthening governance, enhancing security, and improving efficient service delivery at the grassroots level.

    Akume, who was represented by a Director in the SGF Office, Mrs Helen Gapriya, said the Idea underscores President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to tackling the nation’s key challenges while laying the foundation for a safer and prosperous nation.

    He said: “Our nation’s inability to fully identify addresses and provide accurate data has compounded many problems, making it difficult to combat criminal activities, secure communities, and plan effectively for development during budget planning. In the light of these challenges, the introduction of the Proof of Address system is not just timely but necessary for the strengthening of our national identity management infrastructure.

    Read Also: High-performance data centres: The bedrock of national and Nigerian AI development

    “This initiative will strengthen national security, improve government planning, and foster a more orderly society. Besides, by enabling accurate identification and location verification, it will help curb various societal vices, contributing to a safer and more structured environment for all.

    “The Local Government Proof of Address System is a critical component of our efforts to strengthen the capacity of local governments to deliver essential services to our citizens and reduce the need for physical documents and unnecessary of these efforts, and we’re pleased to share the outcomes with you.”

    He said series of meetings have been held in the past, while the sensitisation of the southwest zone marks the launch of a nationwide campaign which will cover the remaining zones in the coming days.

  • IWD: Sanwo-Olu hails WAPA for engaging women

    IWD: Sanwo-Olu hails WAPA for engaging women

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has commended the state’s Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) for its numerous programmes and interventions over the years.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu made the remark during the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.

    He said the state government through the ministry has made significant investments in initiatives designed to empower and uplift women, and to foster self-sufficiency, leadership, and economic participation through the 19 tuition-free skills acquisition centres and the Women Development Centre.

    The governor highlighted that these efforts aligned with global priorities, and recognise women as powerful catalysts for economic growth, innovation and societal transformation.

    He reiterated its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where women will be adequately empowered to thrive in their respective fields.

    Sanwo-Olu said that the state’s policies are dedicated to protecting women from gender-based violence, while also creating opportunities for them to assume leadership roles in governance, decision-making and entrepreneurial support.

    According to him, these policies will enable female entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their businesses.

    Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Bolaji Dada, said that it would continue to empower women and girls through its training initiatives.

    Read Also: United Nigeria Airline launches Abuja-Katsina flight route

    Mrs Dada noted that women who are the backbone of families, communities would continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes and contribute immensely to national development.

    She noted that in spite of these achievements, women still face persistent challenges such as gender inequality, economic disparity, gender-based violence, limited access to quality education, healthcare and leadership opportunities.

    The commissioner called for urgent action and commitment to advance the rights and opportunities of women in Lagos and the country at large.

    “As a ministry, we have been unwavering in our commitment to support women through empowerment programmes, training initiatives and advocacy.

    “We have created platforms that equip women with the skills and resources they need to be financially independent and self-sufficient.

    “The challenges women face whether at home, workplace, or in the society can take a significant toll on their mental and emotional well-being.

    “We must move beyond promises to practical solutions that will empower women and uplift the vulnerable,” Mrs Dada stressed.

  • Sanwo-Olu’s wife inspects Ikosi-Isheri’s Health Centre

    Sanwo-Olu’s wife inspects Ikosi-Isheri’s Health Centre

    • By Chidinma Nnamdi

    Wife of Lagos State Governor Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has inspected the newly completed Ikosi Ultra-Modern Primary Health Centre.

    Dr. Sanwo-Olu praised the council boss for its efforts in promoting healthcare and wellbeing in the community.

    She emphasised the importance of access to quality healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women and children.

    Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Princess Samiat Bada, said the State-of-Art facility was designed to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare services to residents.

    She said the 105-bed capacity health centre is one of the most expansive and well-equipped primary health facilities in Lagos State

    The First Lady’s visit, according to Princess Bada, was to ensure it meets expectations, underscoring the Lagos State Government’s commitment to transforming primary healthcare under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

    “This health centre is just the beginning. We have a vision for a healthier, more prosperous community, and we will continue to work towards achieving that vision,” she said.

    Read Also: Tinubu urges Senate to confirm NCoS CG, CBN board member, four RECs

    Princess Bada noted that the council is preparing to commission over 16 projects next month, including a new area office, a mini hall, a legislative building, a customary court, and several roads which the First Lady had graciously agreed to return to Ikosi-Isheri for their inauguration.

    Princess Bada also commended the support of the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom she praised for advancing the cause of local governments’ autonomy.

    “Governor Sanwo-Olu has been a pillar of support to all council chairmen in Lagos. His zero-tolerance approach for underperformance has motivated us to work tirelessly, and in Ikosi-Isheri, we leave no stone unturned. Every department is actively contributing to our progress,” she added

    She added that the health centre’s project was out of a deep desire to bridge the gap in primary healthcare delivery.

    “Our people deserve access to quality healthcare, and with this facility, we are taking bold strides towards achieving that goal. Like I have always said, my heart is where my community is.”

  • Coronation Anniversary: Epe monarch, 80, installs five chiefs

    Coronation Anniversary: Epe monarch, 80, installs five chiefs

    The Oloja of Epe, Oba Kamorudeen Ishola Animashaun, has installed five new chiefs at his palace in Epe, Lagos State.

    This was part of activities to celebrate his 80th birthday and 25th coronation anniversary.

    The event drew dignitaries, traditional rulers, community leaders, and well-wishers, who gathered to witness the historic moment as the monarch conferred traditional titles on the honorees.

    Among those installed were High Chief Akim Durojaiye Oluwo, who was conferred with the title of Ashipa of Epe, and Adeniyi Kemi Ogunsanya – First Bashorun of Epeland (Bashorun Akoko) and High Chief Abiodun Tobun – Balogun of Epe.

    Read Also: Nobody who jumped from party to party has ever become Nigeria’s president – Reno Omokri

    Oba Animashaun urged the honorees to uphold the values of integrity, leadership, and service to the community. He emphasised the importance of traditional institutions in governance and development, calling on the newly installed chiefs to contribute to Epe’s progress.

    The President of Epe Club, Rasheed Adebola Shabi, congratulated the newly installed Ashipa and Bashorun of Epe, describing their elevation as well-deserved.

    Shabi commended them for their contributions to the growth of the town.

    He expressed confidence in their ability to support the king in advancing Epe’s progress.

    “Their elevation is not just recognition of their contributions but a call to greater service. I have no doubt that they will support the monarch in fostering unity, progress, and the preservation of our rich cultural heritage,” he said.

  • Lawmaker empowers widows, artisans in Surulere

    Lawmaker empowers widows, artisans in Surulere

    • By Sophie Ochia and Chidinma Nnamdi

    The lawmaker, representing Surulere in the House of Representatives, Lanre Okunlola, has reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots empowerment with the launch of his 19th empowerment programme.

    The initiative, aimed at supporting widows, women, and artisans, provided various work tools to beneficiaries to enhance their means of livelihood.

    Speaking at the event, Okunlola emphasised the importance of empowerment in fostering economic growth and reducing hardship within the community.

    “When you empower the youth, you empower the nation. Our focus is on three key groups—youths, women, and widows—because they are critical to the growth of the informal sector,” he said.

     The initiative, which has been ongoing for over a year and a half, has benefited hundreds of residents.

    Okunlola reiterated the need for continuity in such programmes.

    “Empowerment should not be a one-time event. We need to stay close to our people, understand their challenges, and provide targeted support,” he said.

    The lawmaker’s approach involves collaboration with community development councils (CDCs) and community development associations (CDAs) to identify the most pressing needs in the constituency.

    According to him, the grassroots’ strategy ensures that interventions are tailored to the realities of the people.

    Read Also: Tinubu urges Senate to confirm NCoS CG, CBN board member, four RECs

    He reaffirmed his dedication to policymaking and grassroots engagement, stating that feedback from constituents remains a key measure of his success.

    “My duty as a legislator goes beyond making laws. It includes ensuring that policies translate into meaningful impact for the people,” he said.

    Chairman of Community Development Committee (CDC) in Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Abdufatai, Adesina lauded the actions of the lawmaker.

    He advised beneficiaries against selling the items, noting that the purpose of the initiative was to enhance their livelihoods.

    Chairman of Artisans in Itire-Ikate LCDA, Ambassador Ibrahim Lawal, described the programme as a wealth-creation tool for local businesses.

     “These materials are meant to support your craft, not to be sold. If used properly, they can transform lives and the community at large,” he said.

    Secretary-General of the Council of Chief Imams and Alfas in Surulere, Raji Saheed, also lauded the lawmaker’s efforts, describing him as a representative who understands the needs of his people.

     “For decades, we have hoped for a representative like this. It brings us joy to see someone committed to development,” he said.

  • Ikorodu to partner LSETF to boost farming, trading

    Ikorodu to partner LSETF to boost farming, trading

    The Ikorodu Local Government Area said it will partner with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) to grant soft loans to farmers and traders in the area.

    Its Chairman, Mr Wasiu Adesina, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ikorodu, Lagos, Adesina said the partnership would help to enhance food production, reduce the price of farm produce and enhance businesses and investments.

    Read Also: Nobody who jumped from party to party has ever become Nigeria’s president – Reno Omokri

    The chairman added that he would expand the scope of traders’ access to soft loans for economic growth and development. “We are going to work with the LSETF and banks to roll out the soft loans; the arrangement is in the pipeline. “The money will be disbursed to farmers, market men and women to boost their production, which will aid in price reduction. The bank will screen the eligible ones while repayment will start after three weeks with low interest which will be paid by the local government,” he said.

    Adesina said the council was also planning to organise an Agric fair, where food items would be sold to residents at affordable prices as was previously done by the council.

  • The scramble for grassroots power in Lagos

    The scramble for grassroots power in Lagos

    Local government politics is in the air in Lagos. Over 1,000 aspirants are jostling for chairmanship tickets across 57 councils. More than that are scrambling for councillorship slots. Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the struggle for grassroots power.

    At Odiolowo-Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA) alone, no fewer than 25 chieftains of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are competing for the chairmanship ticket.

    Their posters and banners adorn and litter the streets. The aspirants include Tolu Kelani, Sheu Olajide, Seyi Jakande, AdeAkinsete, Olubunmi Gbadamosi, Liasu Nirudeen, Okunsanya Oyesile and Hakeem Mustapha.

    Others are Funmilayo Abosede, Kayode Sobande, Muzbau Alli-Balogun, Oriyomi Ayanwale, Kaze Kelani, Tokunbo Ayanlola, Semiu Karaole and Rodiat Ifeoluwa. In Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, two aspirants, incumbent Samiat Bada and a grassroots politician, Toyin Balogun, are leading 12 other contenders.

    The scenaro is the same in other councils. Local politicians are returning to the drawing board, reviving their structures, making contacts, dropping names of big party leaders and mobilising ahead of the local government polls holding in June or July.

    Party insiders confide that many in the race are there to boost their bargaining powers. “Some just want to vie for chairman so that they can become vice chairman and supervisors,” said a source.

    Analysts contend that the sheer increase in the number of aspirants is related to their perception of the council autonomy. While some politicians believe that council autonomy would secure for them big revenue for developmental works at the grassroots, others believe that it may enhance their chances for primitive accumulation.

    In Somolu local government, former member of the House of Assembly, Rotimi Olowo, is leading other 15 aspirants. In Epe Council, where a former House of Representatives member is eyeing the ticket, there are 12 other aspirants.

    In some local governments, former state and federal lawmakers are seeking chairmanship tickets, being tired of being left in the cold since 2023.

    Besides, the belief that only candidates of the ruling party have greater chances of victory is strong.

    The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) chaired by Justice Bola Ighile is yet to release the timetable for the exercise. However, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who appointed the electoral commissioners in January, charged them to conduct credible polls.

    He said: LASIEC stands as a pillar of our democratic framework, entrusted with the noble duty of organising free, fair, and credible local government elections. This is not just an administrative task; it is a sacred responsibility that shapes the future of our communities. I recall vividly the excitement and hope in the air during our last local elections, a testament to the power of democratic participation. This is the spirit we must nurture.”

    Read Also; Tinubu charges Governors to sustain economic, other relief efforts

    Sanwo-Olu added: “As you assume this critical role, I urge you to prioritise transparency, fairness, and impartiality. The credibility of any electoral process is the cornerstone of its acceptance. Your actions must reflect the highest standards of integrity and accountability. To this end, I encourage you to leverage technology to enhance efficiency and reliability. For example, exploring biometric voter registration can significantly enhance accuracy and prevent fraud, while online platforms can improve voter education and access to information.”

    Although there is no clear guideline yet, the ruling political party is already warming up. Opposition parties are not making any move, may be, due to the intra-party crisis that has distracted their leadership.

    The tenure of council chairmen and councillors is four years. After two terms, incumbents are not eligible for the chairmanship primary. Only those about to complete their first term can contest.

    Lagos APC, chaired by Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, is brainstorming on the criteria for the primaries, which may either be direct, indirect or consensus as the case may be. In some zones, local zoning may also shape the shadow polls.

    There was a debate on whether the elections would be conducted in the 57 councils, including the LCDAs that are not listed in the constitution.

    However, Ojelabi clarified that the exercise would take place in the pre-existing 20 local governments and the additional 37 LCDAs.

    He said: ”In recent times, the leadership of the APC in Lagos State has been inundated by the media, party members and other stakeholders on information about the conduct of the forthcoming Local Government elections, most especially if elections will hold in the 37 Local Council Development Areas – LCDAs.

    “It has become expedient to clear the air on the needless and distractive speculation. We wish to inform all and sundry that the Local Government elections will hold across the state in the 20 Local Government Councils and the 37 Local Council Development Areas in the year 2025.”

    A party source said “screening committees would be set up to vet the credentials and other claims of the aspirants.”

    Ahead of the exercise, the two dominant caucuses in the APC – Justice Forum and Mandate Movement  – are intensifying their activities, which are sometimes divisive. Although the groups were banned by the party leadership in they past, it has been absolutely difficult to enforce compliance.

    Urging party members to close ranks, Ojelabi said:”If you look back, since you have joined the party, no candidate has secured a ticket under Justice or Mandate Forum.

    “It is through the party that members secured tickets. Let us, therefore,  embrace one another, be truthful and shun segregation. That’s why President Tinubu asked us to ban the groups.”