In a show of loyalty and party alignment, Mr. Oluwagbenga Abiola, Vice Chairman of Agege Local Government Area, has officially withdrawn from the upcoming council chairmanship race in Lagos State.
Abiola announced his decision on Wednesday, endorsing Abdulganiyu Obasa, son of Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
The announcement comes ahead of the Lagos State local government elections set for July 12, 2025.
Addressing the press, Abiola emphasized that his move was entirely voluntary and rooted in gratitude to his political mentor.
“I will never go against my leader, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa. This is the man who made me,” he said, quashing speculation that he had been pressured to step down.
Recalling his political journey, Abiola acknowledged the Speaker’s pivotal role in his career.
“He appointed me Special Assistant on Media when he became Speaker in 2015. In 2016, I was appointed Sole Administrator of Agege LGA, thanks to his recommendation to the governor.”
“That appointment made me the youngest council boss in Lagos State at the time,” he shared.
His trajectory has continued in alignment with Speaker Obasa’s political influence, having served as Secretary to the Local Government in 2017 and later as Vice Chairman in 2021.
Abiola affirmed that his ambition to become Chairman was natural, but he accepted the party’s position.
“Yes, I aspired. Every Vice Chairman dreams of becoming Chairman. But the party has spoken, and I fully agree. Leaders and stakeholders have united.”
“They’ve asked the Speaker to allow his son to contest, and I respect and support that,” he stated.
The Vice Chairman dismissed reports that his withdrawal was coerced, reiterating his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Speaker Obasa.
“My decision is based on party loyalty and trust in my leader’s judgment. I trust my leader. He knows what’s best and can recommend me for even greater responsibilities when the time is right,” he explained.
“I’m still young and full of energy. I’ll work for the party and ensure we achieve victory.”
He further pledged support for Abdulganiyu Obasa, describing him as competent and ready.
Abiola also confirmed that his support group, the Obasa Youth Alliance, had been directed to back Abdulganiyu’s bid in the July election.
This development follows growing concerns among party members about candidate imposition.
Only days earlier, APC members in Ojokoro Local Council Development Area held a peaceful protest over what they described as an undemocratic selection process.
A similar protest had also disrupted a stakeholders’ meeting on April 14.
