An aspirant for the Lagos Central Senatorial District seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Olumide Kola-Lawal, has withdrawn from the race in support of the incumbent, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun.
Kola-Lawal said the decision was in compliance with the party's consensus arrangement and in line with its rules and discipline. He, however, maintained that his withdrawal was voluntary and not the result of coercion.
Addressing journalists in Lagos, the aspirant urged his supporters to rally behind the APC and Eshinlokun ahead of the 2027 general elections. He also called on them to support President Bola Tinubu, the party's governorship candidate and other APC flag bearers.
He described his decision as "not a retreat from service, but a reaffirmation of commitment to unity, discipline and the greater good of the party."
Kola-Lawal explained that his ambition, which crystallised in February 2025 after consultations and reflection, was driven by a desire to serve rather than personal interest. He noted that over the past year, he undertook multiple visits from the United States to Nigeria to engage stakeholders across the Lagos Central Senatorial District.
According to him, the consultations spanned all 13 local governments and local council development areas, covering over 90 electoral wards, alongside town hall meetings and engagements with community leaders. He said the process deepened his understanding of leadership as service rooted in listening and inclusiveness.
"In line with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the consensus framework adopted by our great party, I have decided to suspend my campaign forthwith," he said.
Kola-Lawal pledged loyalty to the APC and expressed support for Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, as well as Eshinlokun's return to the Senate. He urged his supporters and associates to remain committed to the party, stressing that the movement they built transcends individual ambition and remains anchored on shared values and collective vision.
"This is not the end of the journey, but a step in a larger path of service," he added.
