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How the Lagos APC Primaries Exposed the Gap Between Gender Policy and Political Reality

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The All Progressives Congress built its 2027 narrative around inclusion. “Deliberate mobilization of women,” “35% affirmative action,” “discounted nomination fees,” and “reserved seats” are all in the party’s public messaging and founding documents. The test of any policy is what happens when power is actually being shared. In Lagos, the test just failed. Ninety-one aspirants contested the APC House of Representatives primaries in Lagos State on May 16, 2026. Twelve were women, making up 15.4% of the field. That figure was already below the party’s stated 35% affirmative action target before a single vote was cast. The outcome narrowed that gap to zero. Of the 12 female aspirants, only Hon. Adebisi Adebajo of Alimosho was declared a winner, and her ticket remains contested. Lagos went into the primaries with one female House member, Kafilat Ogbara of Kosofe, and exited with none guaranteed. This was not a statistical accident. It was a structural outcome of how the party ma...

Kosofe APC Women Warn of Sabotage After Flawed Primary, Urge Party Probe

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Women leaders and grassroots mobilizers of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kosofe Federal Constituency have accused unnamed party actors of sabotaging the constituency’s House of Representatives primary, warning that the incident threatens party unity ahead of the 2027 elections. In a statement issued on May 17, 2026, the women said thousands of members turned out on election day to vote but met “a calculated attempt to suppress the grassroots” after multiple voting centers and wards were left without official voting agents. The group described the omission as a breach of electoral guidelines that “left the field wide open for manipulation” and created room for figures with “desperate political ambitions to rewrite results that do not reflect the reality of the ballot.” They criticized what they called a “shameful display of political greed,” alleging that some individuals who had already served eight years as Local Government Chairmen were trying to hijack the proce...

APC Kosofe House of Representatives Primary Collapses, No Election Held Across 10 Wards

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   By Kosofe Reporters Correspondent | On-site Coverage    What was billed as the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary for Kosofe Federal Constituency ended without a single ballot being cast yesterday, after party officials failed to show up at any of the designated venues across the constituency’s 10 wards. Our correspondent was on ground to monitor the event from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, moving between venues in Agboyi-Ketu, Ikosi-Isheri, and Kosofe wards. In every location, hundreds of delegates and party members arrived early but could not verify their names on the party register, and waited through the day for the arrival of the APC electoral committee and materials but none came. No Officials, No Materials, No Process By 2:00 PM no APC officials had arrived at any of the 10 wards. Party members waited patiently, contacting ward chairmen and LGA executives for updates. No communication came through. At about 5:00 PM, with...

Somolu APC Primaries Shake-Up: Olowo, "Dullar" Step Down for Kolade Alabi

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The race for the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives ticket in Somolu Federal Constituency took a dramatic turn on Friday as two frontline aspirants withdrew and threw their support behind former ALGON National Chairman, Hon. Kolade Alabi. Former Lagos State House of Assembly member Rotimi Olowo Emmanuel and former Somolu LGA Chairman Hon. Salawu Dullar formally stepped down from the contest, endorsing Alabi ahead of the 2027 general elections. The move collapses what was shaping up as a three-way battle between Olowo, Salawu, and Alabi into a single, consolidated front. Party insiders say the decision followed high-level consultations among stakeholders and leaders in Somolu and Bariga aimed at strengthening cohesion and avoiding a divisive primary. With the endorsement, Alabi now enters the APC primary with a significantly expanded base. The former Bariga LCDA chairman was already considered a frontrunner due to his grassroots mobilization record and ...

CONTINUITY MATTERS" - OREKOYA BACKS HAMZAT FOR GOVERNOR, APPEALS TO SOMOLU VOTERS FOR SECOND TERM

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Somolu Lawmaker Points to 3 Years of Bills, Projects, and Youth Programs as Case for Re-election  Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, member representing Somolu Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, says continuity in leadership is key to sustaining progress in Lagos, as he threw his weight behind Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat’s bid for governor. “Continuity is the beauty of democracy,” Orekoya said in an interview. “He doesn’t need to learn. He has been in the system as deputy for many years. He just needs to start from where the current administration stops.”  He added that this would be the first time a deputy governor would succeed a governor in Lagos State. Reflecting on his three years in the Lagos Assembly, Orekoya described the experience as “fantastic” and said the House had set the standard for legislative practice in Nigeria and West Africa.  He noted that lawmakers from other states regularly come to Lagos for training because of the quality of d...

BENSON ADEPOJU ‘AWORO’ DECLARES BID FOR KOSOFE CONSTITUENCY 1 SEAT

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Many Gather at Emmanuel High, Ojota as Aspirant Pledges People-First Leadership Kosofe Constituency 1 took a bold step toward political renewal on May 5th as Hon. Benson Bowale Adepoju, popularly known as Aworo, officially declared his intention to contest for the Lagos State House of Assembly seat. The declaration held at Emmanuel High Street, Ojota, drew a large crowd of residents, party supporters, and well-wishers who turned out to witness what many described as the start of a new chapter for the constituency. Addressing the gathering, Hon. Adepoju said his decision to run was driven by a strong desire to serve the people and bring tangible development to Kosofe Constituency 1.  He stressed that the time had come for unity, effective representation, and leadership that prioritizes the welfare of the people above all else. “I am here today because I believe Kosofe deserves better representation - one that listens, that delivers, and that puts ...

MOYO OGULEWE PAYS TRIBUTE AS OLOGUDU OF OGUDU LAND, OBA NOJEEMDEEN FASHOLA, JOINS HIS ANCESTORS

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Barr. Moyosore Adedoyin Ogunlewe, Executive Chairman of Kosofe Local Government Area, has expressed profound grief over the passing of Oba Nojeemdeen Fashola, the Ologudu of Ogudu Land, who died peacefully at his residence in Ogudu yesterday. On behalf of the people of Kosofe, Ogunlewe extended heartfelt condolences to the Ogudu Royal Family, the Ogudu Traditional Council, and the entire Ogudu community as they come to terms with the loss of their traditional ruler. “Oba Fashola was a remarkable custodian of our culture, a tireless champion of peace, and a devoted servant of his people. In just four years on the throne, he left footprints that will endure for generations. Ogudu has lost a king, but Kosofe has lost an irreplaceable pillar:” Ogunlewe said in a sombre statement. Oba Fashola ascended the throne four years ago and was widely respected for his role in promoting peace, unity, and cultural preservation in the fast-growing Kosofe suburb. During his reign, he was kno...

A TRAILBLAZER IN SOMOLU: WHY ABIODUN OREKOYA DESERVES AN AUTOMATIC SECOND-TERM TICKET

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~Three Years of Impact, One Clear Case for Continuity in Somolu Constituency 1   By Olusegun Apena  When Hon. Abiodun Orekoya walked into the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2023 as the representative of Somolu Constituency 1, expectations were measured. He was a first-term lawmaker in the 10th Assembly, stepping up from his role as former Vice Chairman and Executive Secretary of Somolu Local Government. Three years later, the conversation in Somolu has shifted from “let’s give him a chance” to “let’s keep him.” The reason is simple: performance. In a system where many first-time legislators struggle to find their footing, Orekoya has carved out a reputation as a hands-on, accessible, and results-driven representative whose scorecard is already visible in classrooms, markets, streets, and sports fields across Somolu. A LEGISLATOR WHO SHOWS UP — AND DELIVERS   Orekoya’s influence extends beyond the chambers of the Assembly. As Chairman of the House C...

KOSOFE 2027: Federation of Young Men and Christian Association Condemns 26-Year Muslim Representation Against 4-Year Christian Record In Kosofe Constituency 1

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A coalition of Christian organizations in Kosofe Local Government has called on the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in Lagos State to correct what it describes as a 26-year religious imbalance in Kosofe Constituency 1, urging the party to zone the next Lagos State House of Assembly ticket to a competent Christian candidate. In an open letter addressed to the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), Kosofe APC leaders, and the APC Lagos State Chairman, the Federation of Young Men and Christian Association, Kosofe Chapter, said the constituency’s representation since 1999 has overwhelmingly favored one faith, undermining the sense of inclusion in a mixed community.    According to the group, Christians have held the Kosofe Constituency 1 seat for only four years in the 30 years of democratic representation since 1999. In contrast, Muslim representatives have occupied the seat for 26 years. The letter noted that the late Hon. Bayo Osinowo served for 16 years, whi...

PASTOR EMMANUEL OBU LAUNCHES “EXEGESIS 101: 100 RULES TO EXPLAINING AND UNDERSTANDING SCRIPTURES (VOLUME 2)” AT VIRTUAL EVENT

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A virtual gathering of ministers, theologians, Christian faithful, friends and family across different regions and around the globe converged on Zoom on Saturday, April 25, 2026, for the official launch of Exegesis 101: 100 Rules To Explaining and Understanding Scriptures (Volume 2), the latest publication by Pastor Emmanuel Obu, the Apostle of Joy. The event, which commenced at 2:00 PM, marked a significant milestone in Pastor Obu’s writing ministry, as the new release becomes his 26th published book. The launch brought together a diverse audience of church leaders, scholars, and supporters who reflected on the importance of sound biblical interpretation and celebrated the author’s growing influence in theological education. A Gathering of Voices on Biblical Interpretation The session opened with introductions and logistical updates, followed by prayers for a successful programme. Participants joined from various states and countries, highlighting the global re...

EPE 2027: WHO GETS THE NOD? OLADUNJOYE OR ANOMO

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An in-depth look at Epe’s 2027 House of Representatives Contest  By Olusegun Apena  The contest for the All Progressives Congress ticket in Epe Federal Constituency presents two distinct models of public service. On one side is Barrister Saidat Olayinka Oladunjoye, a lawyer by training, former Commissioner, and current Federal Commissioner at the National Population Commission. On the other side is Akogun Wale Raji Anomo, the sitting Executive Chairman of Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA.   Both aspirants have declared interest in the House of Representatives seat for 2027. Both have documented records in public office. Their backgrounds, however, reflect different pathways through which representation is understood and delivered.   OLADUNJOYE’S PUBLIC SERVICE RECORD   Barrister Saidat Olayinka Oladunjoye’s career spans law, insurance, education policy, and party administration. She was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1999 and holds a BA and MA in His...

ALABI KOLADE DAVID LOCKS DOWN MAJOR ENDORSEMENTS AS AGO-EGUN, WARD LEADERS, YOUTH GROUPS, TRADITIONAL RULERS BACK REPS BID

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The race for Somolu Federal Constituency intensified this week as Hon. Alabi Kolade David, former Executive Chairman of Bariga LCDA and immediate past National President of ALGON, received a wave of endorsements from community leaders, youth blocs, ward executives, and traditional institutions backing his bid for the House of Representatives in 2027. Delegations from the Ago-Egun community, Ward stakeholders, Stand Out Group, LASCOTA, Agbekoya, Baales, the Egun Community, League of Bariga Coaches, Somolu Youth Network, and APC-aligned singer groups all paid separate courtesy visits to Hon. Alabi, pledging bloc votes and grassroots mobilisation for the APC ahead of 2027. The endorsements began with the entire Ago-Egun community, led by acting Baale Mr. Felix Joseph, his chiefs, and youth representatives. Speaking on behalf of residents, Mr. Joseph said the community’s support was “earned, not promised,” citing empowerment programmes executed in Ago-Eg...

"N2.733bn Monthly, Yet Nothing to Show”: Igando/Ikotun Youths Call Out Council Chairman

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Youths in Igando/Ikotun LCDA have accused the leadership of their local council of failing to deliver development projects that match the council’s federal allocation, despite the area reportedly receiving N2.733 billion monthly. In an official statement released Saturday, the group, under the name Igando/Ikotun Concern Youths, said they were “compelled to express our deep disappointment and frustration with the current state of governance in Igando/Ikotun LCDA.” The group noted that Alimosho LGA gets N2.733 billion monthly from the Federation Account, and argued that with six LCDAs under it, each—including Igando/Ikotun—should be entitled to about N455 million monthly. This, they said, is aside from internally generated revenue within Igando/Ikotun. “Regrettably, our community continues to suffer from deplorable roads, inadequate electricity, substandard education, and a lack of essential services,” the statement read. The youths contrasted their situation with other counc...

2027 RACE HEATS UP IN KOSOFE AS ABBEY CHECHE, TOYIN BALOGUN DECLARE AMBITIONS ~Owokoya eyes House of Reps ticket, Balogun joins Lagos Assembly contest in Kosofe II

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The political atmosphere in Kosofe is gathering pace ahead of the APC primary elections in May 2026 as two prominent All Progressives Congress figures, Abiodun Owokoya and Toyin Balogun, formally declared their ambitions for legislative seats.   Abiodun Owokoya, popularly known as Abbey Cheche, has joined the race for the House of Representatives in Kosofe Federal Constituency. Owokoya is not new to the contest. He vied for the APC House of Representatives ticket in the 2023 primaries, building a strong grassroots network across federal constituency.   A businessman and community mobilizer, Abbey Cheche is well known for youth empowerment programmes and constituency outreach.  In a related development, Toyin Balogun has declared interest in the Lagos State House of Assembly race for Kosofe Constituency II. Balogun is a familiar face in APC circles within the constituency. He contested for the APC Assembly ticket in 2023 and also sought the chairmansh...

HAMZAT VISITS SENATOR ADEFUYE TO CONSULT ON GOVERNORSHIP AMBITION~Obanikoro, Mutiu Are, Bode Oyedele accompany deputy governor to Somolu meeting

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Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, visited Senator Anthony Adefuye in Somolu to consult on his governorship ambition ahead of the 2027 elections.   Hamzat was accompanied by some of the leading lights in Lagos State politics, including Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, Alhaji Mutiu Are, Chief Bode Oyedele, and other stakeholders drawn from across the state.   The delegation was received by Senator Adefuye at his residence in the company of selected Somolu Federal Constituency leaders. Those present included Asipa Adedoyin Banjo, Elder Peter Oyewusi, Hon. Ademola Olisa, Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, and other party chieftains from the constituency.   The meeting, held behind closed doors, lasted over an hour. Attendees described the atmosphere as cordial, with wide-ranging discussions on party unity, zoning sentiments, and the future of Lagos under the APC.   In his remarks, Dr. Hamzat anchored his ambition on continuity and consol...

HAMZAT CONSULTS OTUNBA ‘BUSH’ ALEBIOSU ON GUBERNATORIAL AMBITION ~Emotional meeting highlights generational ties as deputy governor widens 2027 outreach

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Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has held a consultation visit with elder statesman Otunba Busura Ishola Adedeji Alebiosu, popularly known as “Bush” Alebiosu, regarding his ambition to become the next Governor of Lagos State.   The meeting took place at the Mende residence of Otunba Alebiosu and was described by attendees as warm and reflective. Sources said the conversation moved beyond politics to family history, loyalty, and service to Lagos.   At one point, Baba Bush was moved to tears as he recalled fond memories he shared with the late father of Dr. Hamzat, Oba Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat. The elder statesman spoke about decades of political partnership with the Hamzat family, noting that their ties cut across generations and predated the current democratic dispensation.   Otunba Alebiosu, a respected APC leader and longtime political figure in Lagos East Senatorial District, listened carefully as Dr. Hamzat l...

SANWO-OLU APPOINTS BROADCASTER PRINCE IBRAHIM LADÉGA SSA ON POLITICAL MOBILIZATION, STRATEGY ~Ace MC, former Gbajabiamila aide joins Lagos governor’s team ahead of 2027 cycle

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has appointed Prince Ibrahim Kehinde Ladéga, ace broadcaster and master of ceremony, as Senior Special Assistant on Political Mobilization and Strategy.   The appointment, which takes immediate effect, was confirmed in a letter from the Office of the Governor on Friday. Ladéga is expected to support the governor’s political engagement across Lagos, coordinate stakeholder outreach, and help shape strategic communication with party structures and community leaders.   Prince Ladéga is a well-known voice in Lagos media and events circles. As a broadcaster and compere, he has anchored major state functions, corporate events, and political rallies for over a decade. His style and grassroots appeal have made him a familiar figure in APC political circuits in the Southwest.   Before this appointment, Ladéga served as Special Assistant on Political Matters, South West, to the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt....

REMI ODUNSI EMERGES A STRONG CONTENDER IN KOSOFE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES RACE~Entrepreneur and APC stakeholder cited for grassroots impact as 2027 discussions build

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Mrs. Remi Odunsi has emerged a strong contender in the race for who represents Kosofe Federal Constituency in 2027, as attention shifts toward aspirants with records of capacity and grassroots delivery.   The entrepreneur, institution builder, and community development advocate is drawing interest across wards in Kosofe, Ikosi-Isheri, and Agboyi-Ketu. A committed stakeholder within the All Progressives Congress, Odunsi has aligned her work with national development, economic inclusion, and grassroots empowerment. Her approach to leadership rests on a principle she repeats across forums: governance must go beyond rhetoric to deliver measurable impact in the daily lives of citizens.   Her case as a contender is built on practical initiatives and structured interventions. She is the founder of five platforms with footprints in enterprise, agriculture, real estate, and leadership development. They include Eridan Group, a venture-building platform advancing en...

THE QUIET SURGE: REMI ODUNSI JOINS KOSOFE REPS RACE AS DARK HORSE ~Second-time aspirant banks on skills, enterprise, and grassroots to challenge Ogbara, Osinowo for APC ticket

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By Olusegun Apena  In the unfolding contest for the All Progressives Congress ticket in Kosofe Federal Constituency, a familiar name is re-entering the field with a different kind of momentum.   Mrs. Oluremi Oluwalogbon Odunsi, nation-building entrepreneur and venture builder, has declared her aspiration for the House of Representatives, Kosofe Federal Constituency, ahead of the 2027 general elections.   She comes into the race as an underdog. Party watchers say she may yet be the dark horse to steal the show.   Odunsi will square up against incumbent Hon. Kafilat Ogbara and former Agboyi-Ketu LCDA chairman Mayor Dele Osinowo in the APC primary. Both are formidable: Ogbara holds the seat and federal committee leverage; Osinowo commands a ward-level machine built over eight years in office.   Yet Odunsi’s aspiration is gradually gaining grassroots support across Kosofe, Ikosi-Isheri, and Agboyi-Ketu. In politics, never say never. H...