With the July 2025 local government elections fast approaching, a civil society group under the banner of Concern Group Initiative (CGI) has appealed to the national leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure a free and fair nomination process towards local government chairmanship election in Agege.
The call comes amid rising concerns over alleged political intimidation and imposition of candidates within the APC in Agege.At a press briefing held on Tuesday, CGI urged the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and other APC chieftains in the local government to intervene and ensure qualified aspirants obtain nomination forms and contest in the electioneering process without interference.
We are tired of political impositions,” said Mr. Dele Olajuwon, leader of the group, in an interview with journalists. “Let interested and qualified candidates contest. Let the people decide—not a handful of powerful individuals.”
The group expressed deep concern over what it described as growing political intimidation from party elites, particularly over the rumored endorsement of Abdulganiyu Obasa, son of the Lagos Assembly Speaker, as the APC’s candidate for the chairmanship position in Agege.Onakoya said he disapproved the move, warning that democracy in Agege was under threat.
“We are calling for an open and fair process where all qualified candidates can pick up nomination forms without the shadow of nepotism looming over them,” he said.
Mr Adebayo Ogunleye, a prominent member of the group stressed that leadership should be based on merit and community service, not family ties.“Agege deserves a leader who understands its unique challenges and is committed to genuine service—not someone installed because of their last name,” Ogunleye added.
He urged APC officials to uphold transparency and inclusivity throughout the electoral process.Ogunleye warned that political favoritism would not only disenfranchise the people but also erode trust in the party’s democratic values.
The group leader, however, pledged to mobilize community members, increase political awareness, and advocate for a level playing field.“We will continue engaging local leaders and educating voters to ensure their voices are heard in this critical election,” he stated.
