A political analyst, Yinus Buhari, has expressed strong support for lawyer and former Lagos State Special Adviser on Housing, Barakat Olawunmi Odunuga-Bakare, in her bid to represent Surulere Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly. This endorsement comes ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election scheduled for March 20, 2026.
Grassroots Ties and Political Experience
In an op-ed, Buhari highlighted that residents of Surulere Constituency 1 are increasingly seeking a representative with deeper grassroots connections and consistent community engagement. He noted that Odunuga-Bakare's political background, legal expertise, and active involvement in local mobilisation have made her a well-known figure across the constituency.
Buhari pointed out that Odunuga-Bakare played a crucial role in the 2023 general elections as secretary of the TGSEE Campaign. In this capacity, she coordinated mobilisation efforts that contributed to the victories of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Senator Wasiu Eshilokun, and the incumbent lawmaker Desmond Elliot in Surulere.
Governance Record and Campaign Message
The analyst argued that Odunuga-Bakare's public service record distinguishes her from many other aspirants. During her tenure as Special Adviser on Housing, she contributed to housing reforms, promoted equitable housing policies, and supported initiatives aimed at resolving disputes in the real estate sector. Her campaign focuses on practical governance, accessible leadership, and policies that enhance opportunities for women and youth.
Call for Fresh Representation
Buhari also addressed the tenure of incumbent lawmaker Desmond Elliot, who has represented Surulere Constituency 1 for three terms. While acknowledging Elliot's contributions, the analyst stated that some residents now desire closer and more consistent representation. Supporters of Odunuga-Bakare believe her local roots and long-standing political involvement make her the ideal candidate for the role.
"Desmond Elliot has served Surulere for three terms. He came in with name recognition, but residents say what they need now is presence, consistency, and someone who prioritises Surulere over photo ops," Buhari stated.
Educational and Professional Background
Odunuga-Bakare attended Mainland Preparatory School and Anglican Secondary School in Surulere, followed by Lagos State Model College, Kankon. She then studied at the College of North East London before earning a law degree and a master's degree in International Commercial Law from the University of Bedfordshire. She also attended the Nigerian Law School. Previously, she served as Leader of the Surulere Legislative Council and hails from the Oshodi, Olorogun Adodo, and Onisemo royal families of Isale Eko in Lagos.
Buhari emphasised that the forthcoming APC primary will provide party members in Surulere Constituency 1 an opportunity to decide the future direction of their representation.
