Leadership Transition in Lagos Local Government Sparks Controversy
The appointment of Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa as acting chairman of Agege Local Government has ignited debate over political succession in Lagos State. Obasa, the son of Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, assumed the position following the medical leave of Chairman Tunde Azeez just weeks after his inauguration.
The transition occurred when Azeez, who was sworn in on July 26, 2025, stepped aside for health reasons, automatically elevating then-Vice Chairman Obasa to the acting chairmanship. This development has drawn scrutiny from opposition parties who question the timing and circumstances of the succession.
Former Lagos State Chairman of the African Action Congress (AAC), Ayo Oni, expressed skepticism about the arrangement, suggesting it was orchestrated. “Everyone in Agege knew the Speaker wanted his son as chairman,” Oni stated, pointing to earlier political maneuvering that saw the younger Obasa placed as vice chairman when facing resistance within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Critics have also raised concerns about the electoral process itself. Oni challenged the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) for allegedly failing to properly vet candidates, noting that the chairman’s health issues were apparent even during the campaign period.
The APC has defended the transition as legitimate and procedurally sound. Party Legal Adviser in Agege, Remi Bello, emphasized that proper protocols were followed, with Azeez formally notifying council legislators and delegating authority according to law. Bello highlighted the acting chairman’s early achievements, including project commissioning and community engagement initiatives.
Taking a measured stance, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has adopted a wait-and-see approach. PDP member and former chairmanship aspirant Engr. Awwal Tahir-Maude acknowledged the legitimacy of temporary succession during illness while maintaining vigilance over the situation.
The controversy reflects broader tensions over political influence and governance at the local level in Lagos State. While opposition groups view the transition as evidence of entrenched political dynasties, the ruling party maintains that effective governance continues uninterrupted under the acting chairman’s leadership.
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