Tensi0n as ‘Baba Sope’ politics returns in APC ahead LG polls
Tension as ‘Baba Sope’ politics returns in APC ahead LG polls
· Obasa’s son stirs controversy in Agege
as odds favor ‘Able Abel’ in Yaba
As the tenure of the current local government administration winds down, tension is building across Lagos State political landscape.
The race to occupy chairmanship and councillorship positions in the 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) has thrown political parties, aspirants, and their sponsors into frenzy.
The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) recently issued the official Notice of Election, setting July 12, 2025, as the date for the polls, with a possible re-run slated for July 19.
Meanwhile, campaigns had officially commenced on April 18 and would run through July 9.
The LASIEC announcement has ignited a flurry of campaign activity, particularly in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), where aspirants’ posters now blanket the metropolis.
The APC primaries to pick its candidate hold on Saturday.
However, beyond the campaign buzz lies growing controversy, especially over alleged candidate impositions and unclear electoral guidelines.
The controversy, it was gathered, stemmed as a result of the need to plant loyal and influential candidates in place ahead of the 2027 general elections to avoid the shocking experience of the 2023 presidential poll where Labour Party’s candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, defeated then-APC standard bearer, Bola Tinubu, in the state.
“In other to maintain the current lead as a ruling party, there is the need to have the right candidates in place to make it easier not only for the presidential and gubernatorial polls but for other elective positions,” a party chieftain told Sunday Vanguard.
‘Baba Sope’ Politics
Some party faithful are worried over the return of what they described as ‘baba sope’ politics. Baba sope is imposition of candidates in local parlance.
Accusations of political godfatherism and imposition within the APC reached a head following the endorsement of Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, son of Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, for chairmanship of Agege LGA.
The endorsement triggered protests, particularly in Ojokoro LCDA, where angry party members and youths disrupted a stakeholders’ meeting over what they described as an attempt to impose an outsider.
Placards with messages like, ‘Obasa should not impose a chairman on us from Agege’, and, ‘You can’t bring a stranger to lead us’, reflected the deep resentment among the party supporters.
We reject any attempt to sideline loyal party members who have served this council,” said Mr. Olusegun Akinoso-Olawaye, one of the protest leaders. “Let everyone test their strength at the primaries.”
Similarly, Mrs. Bola Ojetayo, another protester, decried what she termed the commercialization of leadership: “A stranger should not come to our home and be allowed to lead us”.
healthcare workers, upgrading health facilities, ensuring a regular drug supply, and launching a Community-Based Health Insurance (CBHI) scheme.
“No resident of Yaba should have to choose between health and survival,” Enikanologbon assured.
Addressing the economic challenges faced by small business owners, particularly market women and artisans, Able Abel proposed the establishment of Trade Centers and Business Cooperatives, provision of shared workspaces and storage facilities, and the introduction of low-interest microloan schemes.
“Economic empowerment is not a slogan; it is a necessity,” he stated.
On infrastructure, the aspirant promised a complete overhaul of the area’s aging roads, drainage systems, and waste management infrastructure. “We must build a Yaba that works — where roads are motorable, drains are clean, and the environment is safe and livable.”
He also unveiled plans to boost cultural tourism, proposing an annual Yaba Cultural Heritage Day to celebrate the LCDA’s rich traditions, music, and arts.
“Our culture is our identity. Let’s use it to unite us and create economic opportunities,” he said.
Security and governance featured prominently in the manifesto.
Able Abel announced plans to set up a Local Security Advisory Board and encourage community policing through regular town hall meetings and neighborhood watch collaborations.
“Security is a shared responsibility. We will bridge the gap between citizens and law enforcement,” he promised.
On civic engagement, the aspirant proposed the launch of a digital open data portal to promote transparency in governance. “People must know what’s being spent, where, and why. That’s how you build trust and accountability,” he explained, adding that residents would have direct input into policy through regular engagement forums.
To back his proposals, Able Abel detailed a roadmap for implementation, including a Policy Implementation Task Force and partnerships with private sector actors. He assured that his administration would be driven by measurable targets, quarterly reports, and responsible budgeting.
The APC aspirant said his manifesto was not just a campaign document, but a contract with the people of Yaba.
“This is our shared vision. Together, we will make Yaba LCDA a model of progress, innovation, and people-focused leadership,” he concluded.
LASIEC under Fire
LASIEC, on its part, is facing mounting criticism for what opposition parties described as inadequate consultation and a lack of transparency. At the heart of the backlash is the commission’s inclusion of the 37 LCDAs in the elections despite their controversial legal status and its unilateral release of electoral guidelines without input from the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC).
IPAC Lagos Chairperson, Mrs. Temilola Akinade, described the LASIEC approach as “neglectful,” citing unresolved legal questions surrounding LG autonomy and the Supreme Court’s interpretation.
Mr. Ayinde Olawale of the ACC and Mr. Dele Oladeji of the AP warned that their parties may boycott the elections if the LCDAs are recognized without constitutional backing. “We cannot participate in an election that disregards the rule of law,” Oladeji said.
Assembly Summons LASIEC Boss
In response to these concerns, the Lagos State House of Assembly has summoned LASIEC Chairperson, Justice Mobolanle Okikiola-Ighile (retd), to clarify the commission’s preparations and electoral framework. Lawmakers stressed the importance of transparency, particularly around election security and guideline implementation.
“The people are asking questions. We need LASIEC to address these issues directly,” said Rotimi Ajomale, Chairman of the House Committee on LASIEC and Public Petitions.
Other members, including Kehinde Joseph and Bonu Solomon, echoed calls for LASIEC to restore public confidence through stakeholder engagement and legal clarity.
Vanguard News
