A fresh crisis is brewing within the Surulere chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following allegations that influential party leaders are attempting to impose a preferred aspirant ahead of the Lagos State House of Assembly primaries. The controversy has heightened tension within the party, with aggrieved stakeholders accusing powerful political interests of undermining internal democracy and plotting to edge out actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliott, despite his years of legislative experience and grassroots support.
Allegations of Power Arrogance
Some stakeholders alleged that the growing “power arrogance” and political domination linked to the camp of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, must be resisted to preserve internal democracy in Surulere APC. The stakeholders also questioned why some party leaders and council officials were openly campaigning with one aspirant ahead of the primaries. They further alleged that there was no genuine consensus arrangement within the Surulere APC, claiming that the political structure had, from the outset, been directed to work for the emergence of the female aspirant.
Grassroots Governance Pledge
Meanwhile, an aspirant for the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mushin Constituency I, under the APC, Adedeji Owoeye, has pledged to prioritise grassroots governance, youth empowerment and community-driven development if elected. Owoeye, who spoke in Lagos, said he would make leadership more accessible and responsive to the needs of the people. The aspirant described himself as a grassroots politician who had maintained close contact with residents.
Open-Door Policy and Strategic Interventions
Owoeye emphasised that his administration, if elected, would adopt an open-door policy to encourage interaction between residents and their representative. The aspirant further said he would combine community engagement with strategic interventions to address poor drainage and waste disposal, among other issues. He stressed the need for collaboration with the executive arm of government to attract development projects. Owoeye also pledged to support persons with disabilities through targeted interventions and inclusive education.
