Lagos APC primaries: Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA residents demand grassroots candidate
Residents of Ikoyi-Obalende have rejected the emergence of Mr. Bola Oladunjoye as the consensus All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate in the July 12 local government elections, insisting on the selection of a true grassroots representative.
The community members criticized Oladunjoye for what they described as political opportunism, alleging that he only appears during election season and remains disconnected from the daily realities of the area.
“We don’t know him, and he doesn’t know us,” said one resident, echoing the widespread sentiment among those who felt excluded from the candidate selection process.
In a passionate appeal, the residents called on President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to intervene and ensure that local leadership truly reflects the will of the people—particularly those who have been consistent supporters of the party and contributors to grassroots development.
Hajia Farida Lawal, a long-time resident of Eleshin Street in Obalende, voiced her frustration, saying “What is the reward for our tireless support of the party all year round, if, at every leadership selection, a few elite leaders impose candidates with no real connection to our community?”
Mr. Tijjani Shehu, a resident of Ikoyi and employee of a multinational company, questioned the credibility of the vote tally, saying “How did Mr. Seun Akapo, who withdrew from the race and was absent on election day, received five votes, while another candidate got 18, when only 20 delegates were accredited? The math doesn’t add up”.
Party insiders also challenged the legitimacy of the consensus, revealing that an aspirant scored 13 votes, while Mr. Oladunjoye garnered only 7.
Community leaders emphasized that the strength of local government lies in active grassroots engagement. They warned that the imposition of candidates without broad-based support not only undermines democratic values but could also erode public trust in the APC ahead of future elections.
