Kunle Adelabu
Expectations are now high following the screening of about 20 aspirants out of the 23 that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) officially confirmed to be vying for the Chairmanship position of the Ikorodu Local Government, as the tenure of the incumbent, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina, is winding down.
The screening panel, led by Alhaji Gafaar, former APC Vice Chairman, Lagos East, for four days, screened the aspirants – Princess (Hon.) Folashade Olabanji – Oba, Vice Chairman, Ikorodu LG and the National Chairman, Nigerian Vice Chairmen’s, Hon. Ajayi Adebowale, Council Leader, Ikorodu LG, Comrade Japheth Odesanya (Kolujo), former Secretary to Ikorodu LG, Mr Oladele Ogunfodunrin (Omo Alausa), a health professional and public commentator, Prince Adebayo Ladega, a businessman and Prince Eniayewun Reuben Oyewole.
Others that appeared before the panel during the week included Mr Yinka Majekodunmi, a senior staff with the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Mutiu Animashaun, former Supervisor, Ikorodu LG, Mr Babawale Alogba, a businessman, Mr Adedeji Osho, former Supervisor, Ikorodu LG, Alhaji Kabat Ajalogun, retired Director, Lagos State Ministry of Education and Vice Chairman, Ikorodu – Oga Development Association (IKODASS), Alhaji Murisiku Ajisebutu (Marshal), Mr Kazeem Sowemimo, a Supervisory Councilor, Prince Afolabi Oyefusi, a Supervisory Councillor and Chief Bisoro Oyebola Dawodu Olowosago, a community mobiliser.
In a dramatic turn of event which sent palpable shock waves round the Ikorodu political circle, former Special Adviser on Education and a retired Permanent Secretary, Otunba Fatai Olukoga, also joined the race and was screened alongside other aspirants that appeared before the panel on the last day.
Other aspirants who were not available for the screening because they were out of the country at that time are Mr Ibrahim Alani Onibudo, Canada -based aspirant, Mr Yusuf Atebo Owolewa, who is based in the UK, Mr Azeez Lamina who just returned from Umrah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr Gbadebo Taofeek Oluwafemi, Chairman, Lagos Judiciary Union, who has also just returned from Umrah and Mr Idowu Alli, who is also abroad.
However, information reaching THE IMPACT has it that except for those that left for umrah before the invitations for the screening were sent, the party may not attend to others that missed the screening.
Interestingly, one of the aspirants, Hon. Azeez Jimoh Olosugbo, former Council Leader, Ikorodu LG and former Director – General, Onward Movement of Hon. Sanai Agunbiade, pulled out from the race at the beginning of the screening.
With these array of aspirants, many are of the believe that while many of them have track records in political, community and socio – economic engagements within and outside Ikorodu Division, others are mere opportunists who are in the race to announce themselves and if possible, get consideration for political appointments.
It is also important to note that there is an unwritten law regarding the occupation of the Beach Road office between The Mandate Movement (TMM)/The Mandate Group (TMG) and Justice Forum (JF), and since Hon. Wasiu Adeshina, the incumbent Chairman who has been in the saddle for about 10 years, is from the JF, the next occupant of the council will definitely be from the TMM/TMG.
But despite this, aspirants that have declared their interests caught across TMM/TMG and JF. However, political observers have stated that the JF aspirants might just be positioning themselves for the Vice Chairmanship seat and other positions. More so, we gathered that the leadership of the JF, especially the former Deputy Governor, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, has consistently said that the TMM/TMG should produce the next Chairman. The fact is that from all indications, whoever that the TMM/TMG will be producing as the flag bearer of the party, must have the full support of the JF leadership.
It is in accordance with this unwritten agreement that aspirants on the platform of the TMM/TMG are confident that they have better chances than their JF counterparts. In this regard, the leaders of The Mandate Movement (TMM)/The Mandate Group (TMG) in lkorodu, that would play a major role in determining whom emerges as the Chairmanship candidate includes Sen. Adeseye Ogunlewe, GAC chieftain, Asiwaju Kaoli Ousanya, APC stalwart, Hon. Sanai Agunbiade, the immediate past Majority Leader, Lagos State House of Assembly , Alhaji Musiliu Animashaun (De Cubano), APC Divisional leader, Prince Lanre Balogun, APC leader and former Commissioner, Alhaji Badru Enifeni, APC leader, Otunba Olasunkanmi Tijani, APC Divisional Chairman (now an aspirant for Ikorodu North LCDA Chairmanship), Otunba Fatai Olukoga, former Special Adviser on Education (also aspiring for the Ikorodu LG Chairmanship), Alhaji Taiwo Longe, former Chairman, APC Ikorodu LGA and Alhaji Animashaun, APC LGA Chairman among others. Those outside Ikorodu Central that may also influence the emergence of the party’s flagbearer for the Chairmanship position from the TMM/TMA group are Hon. Adebimpe Akinsola, former Commissioner and former Assembly member who is also the State Secretary of the TMM/TMG, Hon. Nurudeen Solaja, former Assembly member and others.
But the political realities have also shown that the JF leadership, especially the former Deputy Governor of Lagos State and a chieftain of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, cannot be relegated in the scheme of things. Thus, the TMM/TMG must consult widely and produce someone that is acceptable to him.
Other top JF leaders that would also wield influence on who replaces Adeshina as the council chairman are Alhaji Gafaar, former APC Vice Chairman, Lagos East, Oloye Oye Solebo, APC chieftain, Prince Rotimi Ogunleye, former Commissioner, Dr. Lanre Dixon, APC chieftain, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina, the incumbent council chairman among others. Those from outside Ikorodu Central that may also have azsay in who becomes the next chairman of lkorodu Local government, are Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, and Mr Olawunmi Ajetunmobi, the APC Apex secretary, among others.
The duo of Senator Tokunbo Abiru, the Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, and Rep. Babajimi Benson, representative of Ikorodu Federal Constituency, though, have not shown that they have any interest in any of the aspirants, but they will also play major roles in determining who becomes the candidate of the party for coveted Ikorodu Local Government Chairmanship seat. It is politically correct and expected that they must have interest in who is incharge of their council. In the like manner, Hon. Gbolahan Ogunleye, the representative of Ikorodu Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, will also have a say.
THE IMPACT gathered that about seven aspirants from the list of 23, may have been considered for the final screening which may come up after the release of the election guidelines by the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) and State body of the APC. It was gathered that others may be prevailed upon not to purchase the nomination forms. It is also gathered that those among them who are still in service, especially in the senior cadre, may also be prevailed upon to consider remaining in service for possible promotions.
Who are these aspirants and what are their strengths and weaknesses?
Otunba Fatai Olajide Olukoga, former Special Adviser on Education:
Otunba (Dr) Fatai Olajide Olukoga, former Special Adviser on Education who oversaw the activities of tertiary institutions across Lagos State during his time, is a retired Permanent Secretary, an author, former council administrator and former Chairman, Ikorodu – Oga Development Association (IKODASS).
He is currently a Criminal Officer in-charge of criminal law with the mandate to organize training for prisoners and ensure that they are reintegrated into the society after serving their terms, in the Texas State, United States. He is also part of the team that recommended parole for such offenders.
He was appointed as the Chairman, Ojo Local Government, during the transmission of the military rule to the civilian administration, and was among the council administrators that transferred power to elected civilian administrators at the Local Government level.
Otunba Olukoga was also a former aspirant for the Ikorodu Federal House of Representatives seat in 2014, on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He was also a former Chairman, Ikorodu – Oga Development Association (IKODASS), former member, Governor’s Advisory Committee (GAC) during Governor Babatunde Fashola administration, and former member, Lagos State Electoral Law Review Committee. He was a former Director, Arts and Culture, Parastatal Monitoring Office,and former Permanent Secretary, Parastatal Monitoring Office and Ministry of Youths, Sports and Social Development.
The retired civil and public officer is a chieftain of the TMM/TMG which is the group laying claim to producing the next Chairman for Ikorodu LG.
Of course, Otunba Olukoga has the required experience having served for decades at the state level and also serving as sole administrator of a council with records to show for it. However, his age is a major concern as the generality of the populace are calling for younger element at the helms of the council’s affair. It is gathered that the leadership of the JF are opposed to his emergence but one cannot rule out anything in politics.
In addition, it is also yet to be seen if Otunba Olukoga would get the support of his group which is at the moment divided with many of the chieftains rooting for different aspirants before his unexpected entry into the race.
Hon. (Princess) Folashade Olabanji – Oba, the incumbent Vice Chairman, Ikorodu LG:
Aare’birin Hon. Princess (Dr.) Folashade Olabanji-Oba is a woman of many parts and titles. She is the current Vice Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government and the National Chairman, Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC).
She has a wide network and goodwill that she can always taps into, and this mainly accounts for her close contacts in high places. The potency of her capacity was shown four years ago, when she almost displaced her boss, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina as the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu, after she and former Council leader, Hon. Azeez Jimoh Olosugbo, formed a very strong alliance to run together, a situation that seriously threatened Adeshina’s re – election bid and was saved at the last minute through political maneuverings. That she has survived as Vice Chairman for eight years under Adesina’s cabinet is another testament to her doggedness. She will definitely stop at nothing to pull her strings again this time.
At the moment, she is the only female aspirant among the 23 aspirants that are eyeing the Beach Road secretariat.
Olabanji – Oba is also the Convener of the Grow Ikorodu Movement, Convener/Global Director General, Asiwaju Distinguished Ambassadors Movement (ADAM), Global Coordinator and APC AMAZONS.
She is the Yeye Aare Omoluabi Agbaye, Aare Arewa Oodua, Aare Yeye Wura Ijesha, Aare Bobashelu, Orile Agege, Aare Yeye Gbobaniyi Oro and the Aare Yeye Taiyese.
She is believed to have garnered more than the required experience in about eight years of being the Vice Chairman. Her membership of the TMM/TMG gives her added advantage, while is also acceptable to the youths and other groups.
While she is getting the support of various sections in Ikorodu, especially the women, her reach at the state and national levels will also come handy. However, her aspiration may face stiff opposition from Ikorodu traditional institutions who pride in the town’s indigenous nature and cherish its culture and traditions. To this important class, a male council boss is preferable. Also, his boss, who will play a major role in deciding who succeeds him, is, according to report, not also supporting her aspiration.
Nevertheless, she is a force to reckon with in the Chairmanship race, and a serious contender.
THE IMPACT also gathered that she’s one of the few aspirants penciled down for the final screening.
Hon. Ajayi Adebowale, incumbent Council Leader, Ikorodu LG:
The incumbent Council Leader is also a serious contender, if not for anything but for the mere fact that he is in power and has access to important council information and the leadership of the party. He is also a political son of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Hon. Nurudeen Agbaje who is said to have played significant roles in his rising political profiles.
Adebowale is also very close to the former Deputy Governor, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, and other party leaders, as well as the representative of Ikorodu Constituency I, Hon. Ogunleye Adetokunbo Gbolahan. In addition, he is an ally of the present council Chairman, Hon Wasiu Adeshina who is allegedly throwing his support behind another aspirant.
Ajayi holds a Master’s degree and has been opportuned to embark on several travels within and outside the country for capacity development training as a Councillor and as Council Leader.
THE IMPACT gathered that he performed very well at the screening and that he may have another shot in the final screening process. He too is a member of the TMM/TMG, a situation that has also brightened his chances.
However, one of his factors that might militate against his chances is that he may not get support from the council chairman whom he has worked with closely, as he is said to be supporting another aspirant. The same goes for the former Deputy Governor and his son, Hon. Gbolahan, both of whom are reportedly working for another aspirant.
There is also this question among the people about the impact of the Ikorodu LG’s legislative arm on the populace in the last for years. He may have to avail the public what the House has been able to achieve under his leadership to correct the impression that they are just ‘Yes sir’ Councilors.
Comrade Japheth Akeem Odesanya, former Secretary to Ikordu LG:
Comrade Japheth Odesanya, Japhetism as popularly called, is a former Secretary to the Local Government (S.L.G) in Ikorodu. He is a political analyst, social commentator, thinker, traditionalist, Founder, Factor Class and the Publisher/Editor-in- Chief, The Factor Newsmagazine since 2002.
He was an aspirant for the Lagos State House of Assembly under the ACN and a thorough breed students’ and civil rights activist. He was a former President, Students’ Union Government, Ogun State Polytechnic now Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, P.R.O. National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS} and former Chairman, Joint Campus Committee, Ogun State.
The vibrant and popular aspirant bagged Masters in Communication Studies (MCS), Lagos State University, HND, Mass Communication, Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta and ND in Mass Communication, also from Ogun State Polytechnic, Abeokuta. Beyond these academic qualifications, Japheth is highly knowledgeable and vast in many areas. He has attended many seminars and conferences. He is an orator and endowed with street credibility.
Some of his political engagements includes Member, Directorate of Media & Publicity Babajide Sanwoolu Independent Campaign Group (BOS ICG) 2018 & 2022, Member, Directorate of Chieftaincy And Traditional Affairs (BOS ICG) 2018 & 2022, Director of Media, Indomitable TInubu Support Group (ITSO), Lagos State, Director of Media, Ogunleye Gbolahan Adetokunbo Campaign Organisation, 2023, Member, Media Committee, Independent Campaign Group (ICG), for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s 2nd Term and Southwest Delegate, Conference on the Review of the 1999 Constitution in Ibadan, Oyo State.
As an activist, Japheth was a Research Assistant, Citizens Forum for Constitutional Reforms, Program Officer, Youth Vigil Democracy, Member, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Member, Campaign For Democracy (CD), Member, Pro National Conference (PRONACO), Field officer, National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and the Publicity Chief, June 12 Movement of Nigeria.
As it is, Japheth, according to reliable sources, is one of the three leading aspirants in the race, if not the front runner. He has vast knowledge of the party and Ikorodu community as a whole, and reportedly has the backing of the TMM/TMG and JF leadership at the local, state and national levels. He has the full support of the former Deputy Governor, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, and other leaders in Ikorodu. He is also said to be in the good book of the incumbent chairman, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina who despite supporting a particular aspirant, seems to be towing his leaders’ line in switching his support.
During his time as the SLG, he was known to be very active and elevated the position. This also accorded him required knowledge of the council administration, especially critical areas.
Also, the fact that many of those that served with him in the cabinet of the late former Chairman of the council, Alhaji Sheriff Anipole, are core movers of his aspiration, is an added advantage for him.
Japheth is not just acceptable to the political class but also to the traditional institution in Ikorodu, with the report that the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Shotobi, and other traditional leaders and institutions have already endorsed him. In about two years since his campaign started, the aspirant has reached out far and near.
He is also one of the most visible aspirants who has clear programmes on what he will be doing when elected. Through his appearances on television and radio programmes, Japheth has continually shown his knowledge of the local government administration. His background will also come handy for him in managing the council if elected, because, at least, three of his brothers have operated and are still operating at the local government level, two of which are in the management cadre.
Expectedly, sources within the hierarchy of the APC in Ikorodu, said that he performed very well at the screening exercise conducted, and that he’s definitely among the few aspirants that would take part in the final primary process.
Though, he is acceptable to the leadership of the JF, Japhet is a strong member of the TMM/TMG, both in Ikorodu and at the state level and also has the support of the state leadership of the group for his aspiration.
His weakness is that some leaders fear his strong personality and will.
Mr Majekodunmi Ibrahim, a senior staff of the Lags State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS):
Majekodunmi Ibrahim Olayinka, FCTI, CNA, B.Sc, M.Sc, MBA, MILR, is one of the few aspirants with very rich political, academic, community and students’ activities profiles and has promised to bring a new lease of life to Ikorodu LG with his FRESH IDEAS. Majekodunmi is also one of the few that have articulated their agenda for the repositioning of Ikorodu and made it public.
Majekodunmi, a Community Mobiliser, Economist, Accountant and seasoned Tax Administrator, is a member of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) where he was inducted as a Certified National Accountant (CNA), fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, (CITN), member of International Fiscal Association (IFA) and also a Member, The Nigeria Economic Society (NES).
He attended the renowned University of Ibadan (U.I), Ibadan, Oyo State, for a postgraduate study and was awarded Masters in Industrial and Labour Relations (MILR) in the year 2003. He also holds a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, in 2019.
The young man, who puts great efforts in personal development through education and innovation, holds a M.Sc. in Economics from University of Lagos (UNILAG 2024), after bagging B.Sc in Economics in 1998, from the Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos State.
At the moment, Majekodumi is a management staff of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS).
He is a former aspirant for Ikorodu Constituency I seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly, and an active community developer. Some of his political engagements includes Member, Local Organizing Committee, Ikorodu Local Government (Senator, Sikiru Oshinowo Campaign) (2019); Member, Special Duties Committee, Tokunbo Abiru Campaign Team (TACT) (2020); Member, Tinubu/Shetima & Sanwoolu/Hamzat Independent Campaign Council (Directorate For Election Management & Strategy (2023); Asst. Coordinator, Ikorodu North LCDA for Tinubu/Shetima & Sanwoolu/Hamzat Independent Campaign Council (Lagos Foot soldiers Directorate (2023) and Party Agent for All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 General Elections.
He is a member of the TMM/TMG which provides him an added advantage coupled with his calm personality and good relationship with people.
He is a serious contender with his impressive resume and general acceptance among the party hierarchy and the general populace, but he exists in a party that operates based on structure which is the leadership. He is, therefore, lacking in this aspect in terms of who is backing his aspiration. He seems to be an independent aspirant who only prides in his qualifications, ability and capacity to work and deliver, but without the support of a major party leader(s). He is not the usual or typical politician.
Mr Oladele Ogunfodunrin, a grassroots mobiliser and public commentator:
Mr Oladele Ogunfodunrin, popularly known and called ‘Omoba Alausa’, is a thinker, public affairs analyst, strategist and one of the professionals that traveled to the Peoples’ Republic of China on human capacity development training facilitated by Rep. Babajimi Benson.
He holds Masters in Public and International Affairs, University of Lagos, Bsc, Business Administration, University of Lagos and National Diploma (Elect/Elect Engineering), Ogun State Polytechnic.
His working experience includes but not limited to FIR Assistant, National Oil & Chemical Marketing Head Office in Marina, Lagos , HR Assistant, Chevron Nigeria Limited, Lekki, Lagos and the Chief Operating Officer, Silk n Purple Limited, Plot 170b, Oyadiran Estate, Sabo-Yaba, Lagos.
As an active community developer, Ogunfodunrin was the Secretary Security Committee, Igbo-Oluwo Estate CDA, 2007 – 2013, Secretary Zone A, Igbo-Oluwo CDA, 2007 – 2013 and Member, Revenue Mobilisation Igbo-Oluwo CDA, 2013 – 2014.
Politically, he started his current engagement in this dispensation as a member of the Alliance for Democracy and the Welfare Officer Action Congress, Ward B Ikorodu Central and later member, Action Congress of Nigeria, Ward B, Ikorodu Central.
He was the LGA Treasurer, All Progessives Congress, Ikorodu Central, Ward Collation Agent, 2015 General Elections, Isele 1, and Member, Independent Campaign Group (ICG) HE Mr Akinwunmi Ambode Governorship Election 2015, Member, Directorate of Party Affairs BOS-KOH Independent Campaign Group (ICG) 2019, Captain, Senator Tokunbo Abiru Constituency Team (TACT), Ikorodu Central, LGA Member, (Monitoring Committee) APC Registration and Revalidation Exercise 2021 and ICC Strategic Directorate, Tinubu/Shetima, Sanwo-Olu/Hamzat 2023 Campaign
An articulate young man and thorough-bred professional who has been canvassing his view on local government administration and general issues on many of his radio appearances.He has also made public his agenda for Ikorodu.
He was a former member of the Justice Forum, but does not belong to any of the two dominant groups within the APC at the moment, which presents him as a neutral aspirant. However, whether this would be of favour to his aspiration or not, would be seen in the next few weeks.
Ogunfodunrin, who is a strong member of the iCare Foundation, the working team of Rep. Babajimi Benson, is, no doubt, connected with the leadership of the party and other stakeholders in Ikorodu and beyond, an advantage he is expected to fully tap into to achieve his aspiration. His connection with Seyi Tinubu, leaders outside Ikorodu and other influential persons are also what he’s expected to fully maximise for the realization of his political aspiration.
Although, he is said to have had a good outing during the APC screening, his major albatross may be his non allegiance to either the TMM/TMG or JF which are the major power brokers in lkorodu politics.
Mr Babawale Alogba, a former banker, finance expert and businessman:
Alogba is an Associate Chartered Banker (UK). He has B.sc, Masters in Business Administration (MBA), and Masters in Science (MSc).
Babawale was an aspirant for the Ikorodu Constituency I seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly, in the 2023 General Elections.
He is another popular aspirant gunning for the Ikorodu Local Government Chairmanship seat. He is a young politician, finance expert and PEEP advocate who hailed from a very strong family in Ikorodu. His late father, Alhaji Musediq Alogba, was a renowned businessman, community developer and philanthropist whose goodwill will definitely run off on him. His uncle, late Alhaji Salisu Alogba, who passed on about two weeks ago, was the former Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the pioneer Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) in Ikorodu Local Government, had done well for the people and was also well respected and revered within the political circle and the community at large.
Babawale is a member of the Ikorodu Division Resource Development Group (IDRDG) and Ikorodu Heroes Association (I – Heroes), and many other economic, developmental, political and social associations.
The aspirant, who has also taken after his father’s philanthropic gesture, is loved by all and sundry. Although, he joined the race late, but within the short period of time that he announced his aspiration, he has been able to register his presence with bill boards and social publicity. But candidly, he appears not too keen about the contest.
He belongs to the JF, the political caucus within the APC which produced the incumbent chairman.
Although, many see him as a ‘get inside’ type, a deeper knowledge of his person would reveal a personality with good understanding of his environment, his people and someone who has operated at the ward and LGA levels of his party.
When the time comes for the big decision, his family background, financial muscle and personality would definitely count for him, but the extent his political engagement so far will help his aspiration is remain to be seen.
Mr Ibrahim Alani Onibudo, a Canada – based businessman:
Prince Ibrahim Alani Onibudo, popularly called ‘Prince of Quebec’, is a certified architect and design technician. He holds Ordinary and Higher National Diplomas (OND and HND), Lagos State Polytechnic (now Lagos State University of Science and Technology).
He also attended the University of Toronto, Canada, and National Academy of Transport. He has also undertaken courses in French and Information Technology and attended several seminars and conferences.
He had worked at several establishments, both in Nigeria and abroad where he is based. Onibudo is the Managing Director/CEO, Brymon Limited.
Before relocating abroad, Onibudo was actively engaged in youth and community development activities and he was a founding member of The Ikorodu Ambassadors Group.
However, despite his relocation abroad, he is always involved in what happened back home in Ikorodu and also availed his contributions.
He was among the few aspirants that started their campaigns early to underscore the seriousness of his aspiration. He is also one of the few that have unveiled their agenda for Ikorodu, if elected and he has on many occasions discussed this on various platforms, particularly THE IMPACT T platform.
Politically, Onibudo is just building his own platform, and has done a great job mobilising and galvanising the community towards his aspiration. It is, therefore, not a fluke that he has become a household name and a force to reckon with. He is also married to the daughter of a political leader which is expected to be an added advantage for his aspiration.
Also, his membership of the TMM/TMG coupled with his youthful age, are added advantage to him.
One of his challenges l, however, is his failure to attend the screening organized by the party leadership, and going by the feelers, he and others that are based abroad that failed to attend the screening may not have another opportunity to be screened. Another issue that may affect him is his political engagement before now.
Prince Adedayo Abayomi Ladega, a real estate and property professional and businessman:
Prince Adedayo Abayomi Ladega, who has vast investments in the real estate and property management in many states of the federation, including Abuja, has Diploma in Graphic Design, from Dtee Computer Educational, lkorodu, Bachelor of Science, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago – Iwoye, Ogun State, and according to his profile, he is pursuing his Masters in Public Administration in the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
A seasoned real estate executive, Ladega has managed high – valued property portfolios and strategic business operations.
He is the Chief Executive Officer, Real Estate & Property Management, Chief Executive Officer, K. Derlings Nigeria Limited, Strategic Sourcing Director, and Farm Meal Limited. He had served as the Procurement Manager, Xkay Global Nigeria Limited.
Politically, he is a Special Assistant (SA) to the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Industrial Training and Development and a member of the TMM/TMG.
He has the financial muscle and connections which are the majorly driven his aspiration. It is gathered that a former governor of Osun State and national leader of the APC and some key figures in the Presidency, are behind his aspiration.
He has been able to use the resources and contacts at his disposal to make inroad into the Ikorodu political system and within a very short period too, has also built a strong following with some leaders of the TMM/TMG, led by his uncle, Prince Lanre Balogun, a former Commissioner, rooting for him.
But will the apex leadership of the APC and members of the party allow an external forces to impose an aspirant on them? That is what is left to be seen with Ladega’s aspiration.
To his credit, he has been able to win some strategic young politicians to his side, and are now his foot soldiers. Although, he is a young and vibrant young man, but he is not known to have worked for the party before now. However, in politics, anything can happen.
Mr Yusuf Owolewa, a United Kingdom based businessman:
Owolewa attended the Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, now known as Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) where he obtained NCE in Islamic Studies and Political Science. He proceeded to the Lagos State University and graduated with a degree in Political Science and later bagged a Masters in Business and Human Resources Management at Northumbria University, London, United Kingdom.
He is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Atecommer Nigeria Limited, a growing conglomerate with interests in Printing, Branding, Agriculture, and Logistics. He also presently serves as a Human Resource Manager (Night) at the Danny and Parks Limited, London. He utilizes his expertise as a political strategist, specializing in developing plans for societal development and election management.
Owolewa was a member of the Student Parliamentary Council and later elected as the President of the National Association of Lagos State Students, AOCOED Chapter. During his undergraduate years at Lagos State University, he served as a member of the Students Union Parliamentary Council (LASUSU SPC), Speaker of the Faculty of Social Science Students Legislative Council, and a member of the LASUSU Independent Electoral Committee
He was a foundation member of the Babajimi Adegoke Benson National Assembly Campaign in 2015, where he served as the Director of Logistics. He worked with iCare Foundation as the Director of Admin and Logistics from 2015 to 2019, after which he resigned to focus on his business.
He played a pivotal role in various political campaigns within Ikorodu and at the state level, including as a member of the Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu Independent Campaign Group in 2019 and 2023, serving on the Sports Committee of the group.
His frank nature when canvassing an issue earned him ‘The Most Outspoken Honourable’ during his student days.
At the moment, Owolewa is based in the U.K, which means that like other abroad – based aspirants, he is not having direct contact with those that matter in the decision – making of the party. In addition, it is not clear if the party leadership would consider him and others that missed the screening for a rescheduled arrangement.
He is a member of the TMM/TMG.
Mr Azeez Lamina, Publisher, Waves magazines
He studied Mass Communication at the Lagos State Polytechnic, now Lagos State University of Science and Technology, after which he moved to the Lagos State University where he also studied Mass Communication and majored in Public Relations and Advertising. Azeez is also a certified Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations and he equally attended Fate Foundation Business School where he honed his skills as a businessman. He has attended so many workshops, seminars and refreshes courses to stay on top of his game.
He has Masters in Corporate Communications (Academic) and a professional Masters degree from Valencia International University, Spain, and M.A. Corporate Communications, Marketing Communications & Multimedia at Rome Business School.
Between 2006 and now, he founded Waves Magazine, Waves Pictures and Affairs (photography outfit), Waves Gist Zone and Wavesplus TV. Through his various media platforms, Azeez has contributed immensely to the development of both journalism and broadcast professions and has also supported the development of the youths through educative, innovative, inspiring and challenging contents.
The youngest of all the aspirants who is blessed with energy and sound mind, he is an enterprising character who has strong goodwill that can come handy for his aspiration. He is active in community service and has been building networks beyond Ikorodu with his media practice. He is currently in the service of the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission. He worked closely with the Chairman, Ikorodu North LCDA before transferring his service to another council.
Even though he came late into the race, there are indications that he has been building himself for this aspiration going by how he has been using his own media and other platforms to promote himself which is a good strategy. But, his acceptance to the political leadership is yet to be seen. This may be due to the fact that he is also not the usual politician who has been identifying with them.
His aspiration, it was gathered, has the blessings of the outgoing chairman, Ikorodu Local Government, Hon. Wasiu Adeshina and his second wife, Alhaja Rashidat Bello who is also the APC women leader, which is a good thing to happen to anyone’s political aspiration at the council level. The chairman and the aspirant were at the just concluded umrah together. But while the support of Alhaja Rashidat is sustained, that of the chairman seems to have shifted to another aspirant who is being supported by his leader.
Lamina is one of the two aspirants that missed the APC screening for the chairmanship aspirants because they were away at the lesser hajj and going by the feelers from the party leadership, they may be given another opportunity to appear before the screening committee unlike those based abroad.
Mr Adedeji Adeyinka Osho, JP., former Supervisor, Ikorodu LG:
Osho, is a Prince of Ikorodu and son of the late Baale of Isele, Chief Osho, popularly known and called the ‘Authentic’ Baale, due to the controversy that ensued when the former Ayangbure of Ikorodu, Oba Salaudeen Afolabi Oyefusi, installed another Baale in Isele against late Chief Osho who had the support of the former flamboyant politician and Minister for Information, Otunba Theophillus Benson, SAN.
He is a grassroots politician and ally of the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr Nurudeen Agabje. He was a Ward Secretary, Senior Special Assistant to the former Chairperson, Ikorodu LG, Alhaja Anipole and later, as Supervisor for Education under the late Alhaji Anipole’s administration.
At a point, he worked at the TOS Benson Chamber, and also managed a Computer Institute called DEJVOM where he trained many aspiring young people in Ikorodu.
He is a member of the TMM/TMG and also close to the leadership of the party.
Alhaji Kamaldeen Tijani Babatunde AJALOGUN, retired Director, Lagos State Ministry of Education and Vice Chairman, Ikorodu – Oga Development Association (IKODASS).
Alhaji Ajalogun, popularly called ‘Kabat’, holds B.A ED, (Hons) Educational Administration from University of Lagos (UNILAG) and retired as a Director, Lagos State Civil Service after many years of meritorious service.
He started engaging in political activities fully in 1985, being an admirer of his mentor and amiable uncle, Asipa Kaoli Olatunji Olusanya. He was the Divisional Youth Leader of Club 80 of Nigeria, Ward A3 Secretary of National Republican Convention (NRC), Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government Afenifere Unity Forum (AUF), Director General, OMOLUABI Group, Ikorodu Local Government, Party Secretary of Action Congress (AC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and pioneer LGA Secretary of the All Progressive Congress (APC) respectively.
He was the Principal Coordinator of Hon. Abike Dabiri 3rd Term bid, which was won and the Director General of the Team SOB of Hon. SOB Agunbiade (Majority Leader Lagos State House of Assembly) 4th term bid which was also won. He was a member of the Presidential Campaign Committee (PCC) Contact and Mobilisation 2023 Presidential Election. Today, Alhaji Kabat is the Ikorodu Divisional Legal Officer of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Ikorodu Division.
He is a grassroots politician who has won many difficult elections as can be seen with the likes of Hon. Abike and Hon. SOB Agunbiade. To this end, this contest may not be a difficult task for him to achieve going by his political antecedent, experience and contacts, especially at the local level. As it stands, he is the most experienced aspirant politically, which accounted for his massive mobilization of the grassroots people.
Kabat is a strong member of the TMM/TMG and understands the working of the group and the party as a whole, but his major challenge may be his age going by a section of the populace and the party.
He was said to have performed very well at the APC screening and may be invited for the final screening for those considered as the real gladiators and contenders.
Prince Gbadebo Taofeek Oluwafemi, FCNA, State Chairman, Lagos State Judiciary Staff Union.
Prince Gbadebo studied Business Studies at The Polytechnic, Calabar, after which he was admitted at the prestigious University of Lagos, to study Accounting and currently studying Public Administration at Masters level in the same university.
He is an Assistant Chief Executive Officer with the Lagos State Judiciary. He is a member of Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria (ICAN) and he is also an Associate Member of the Institute of Islamic Finance Professionals of Nigeria (2017).
He has sterling records in youth and community service/engagement. He was the pioneer Secretary of Oga Luminaries, in Ikorodu, from 2003-2008, Internal Auditor of the Ikorodu Youth Council 2002-2005 and the Lagos East Coordinator of the Conference of Community Based Organizations in Lagos State, from 2004 – 2012. From 2008 to 2011, and was the State Financial Secretary of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter.
He was the Chairman of NYCN Lagos State, Ikorodu Division Chapter, from 2008 to 2011, State Chairman of the National Youth Council Of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter, from 2011 to 2015. He also served as the Public Relations Officer of the Forum of State Chairmen (NYCN) Nigeria.
He was the Financial Secretary of JUSUN, Lagos State, from 2011 to 2015. He was a Vice Chairmanship candidate of JUSUN, 2015 Congress.
Prince Taofeek Gbadebo is the Founder and Executive Director of Goal Youth Empowerment & Initiative, Ikorodu, from 2008 till date and the President of Al-Yusra Relief Foundation, Ikorodu, from 2015 till date.
The State JUSUN Chairman and former Chairmanship Ikorodu LG aspirant is, no doubt, a grassroots mobiliser, especially among the youths because of his activities over the years. He is a smooth operator who can penetrate places without anyone seeing him coming. He is one of the few aspirants that did not just declare their intention on the social media or writing letters to the party leaders, but also formally declared his aspiration at a public ceremony with a large number of APC members and residents of Ikorodu, in attendance.
He also has a good relationship with who is who within the Lagos State Judiciary and the community, who all may be rooting for him. This, coupled with the fact that he is a member of the TMM/TMG, are added advantages for him. However, he also seems to be an aspirant without any particular leader or group of leaders backing his aspiration, a situation that poses serious threat to his aspiration.
Alhaji Murisiku Adesgun Ajisebutu (Marshal):
Ajisebutu, popularly called ‘Marshal’, is a son of the late number one political leader in Ikorodu Division, Alhaji Mufutau Ajisebutu. He holds a certificate in International English Language Testing Service (IELTS) – Test Report from British Council, Nigeria, and National Diploma in Business Administration & Management, Lagos State Polytechnic.
He had worked as the Marketing Manager, Arike Trading Company, Clerical Officer, Fence Technology Nigeria Ltd., and Assistant Project Supervisor, Fence Technology Nigeria Ltd. He is today the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Butlond Nig Enterprises.
Politically, Ajisebutu was a member of the National Center Party of Nigeria (NCPN) Ward A1, founding member, Hope ’93 Movement, Ikorodu LGA, founding member, Bashorun Abiola Support Group (BSG) Ikorodu LGA, member, Social Democratic Party (SDP), Ward A1, Ikorodu LGA, member, Progressives People’s Party (PPP), Ward A1, Ikorodu LGA, 1989, and member, People Solidarity Party (PSP), Ward A1, Ikorodu LGA, 1988.
The aspirant, who was the Principal Private Secretary to the Alliance for Democracy (AD) Divisional Leader, Ikorodu, late Alhaji M.A. Ajisebutu, between 1999 and 2003, was the Deputy Director, Directorate of Mobilization, Tinubu-Shettima/Sanwo-Olu-Hamzat Independent Campaign Council (ICC), Lagos State, National Delegate, All Progressives Congress (APC), National Convention Abuja, State Delegate, APC Lagos State Congress, Treasurer All Progressives Congress (APC) Ikorodu Division Sept, APC LGA Registration & Revalidation Committee (Local Govt Monitor) Ikorodu LGA and Member,and Lagos State Mobilisation Directorate ( BOS/KOH ICG) (Chairman Tricycle & Motorcycle Sub-Committee).
He was also the Local Govt Co-ordinator, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu- Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat Independent Campaign Group (BOS KOH / ICG), Member, Local Govt Security Committee for 2017 Local Govt Elections, Chairman, Welfare & Logistics Committee, Wasiu Adesina (WADESH) Campaign Organisation, 2017 Local Govt Elections, Member, DIVISIONAL CWC Caucus, The Mandate Group/Movement (TMG/TMM) 2016-till date, Financial Secretary, All Progressives Congress (APC), Ikorodu Local Govt. 2014-2017, Member, Action Congress (AC) later Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Ikorodu Local Govt 2009-2013, State Youth Leader, Alliance for Democracy (AD), Lagos State, 2003-2007, Member, Lagos State Independent Campaign Group (ICG) 2003-2007 and Co-founder, State Vice President & Chairman Mobilisation Committee, Alliance Youth Congress (AYC), Lagos State and Divisional Youth Leader, Afenifere Justice Group (AJG), Ikorodu Division, 2000-2003.
Ajisebutu is a member of the TMM/TMG, and one of the aspirants that attended the APC screening.
Mr Mutiu Animashaun, former Supervisor, Ikorodu LG:
Mutiu Animashaun is a graduate and a former Supervisory Councilor for Environment, Ikorodu Local Government. He is a son of one of the leaders of APC in Ikorodu Division. In fact, his father, Alhaji Musiliu Animashaun (De Cubano) is the Divisional leader of the TMM/TMG group.
His aspiration, until recently, was being championed by a powerful leader of the APC at state and local level, but he is now said to be throwing his support behind a former Permanent Secretary and former Special Adviser on Education.
Like his father, Mutiu is also a member of the TMM/TMG, and an in – law to the apex leader of the APC in Ikorodu Division, Price Abiodun Ogunleye and the representative, Ikorodu Constituency I, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Gbolahan Ogunleye. All these are expected to favour his political aspiration, but this is yet to be seen.
Mutiu is one of the aspirants that attended the APC screening.
Mr Kazeem Sowemimo, a serving supervisor, Ikorodu LG:
Sowemimo is a graduate of the Lagos State University (LASU), and currently serving as a Supervisor in Ikorodu Local Government He is a member of the Justice Forum.
Sowemimo is a strong member of the Omoluabi Group and Senator Tokunbo Abiru’s #DoingGood team. He is the CEO, Save Environment.
Sowemimo also attended the screening.
Prince Afolabi Oyefusi, a Supervisory Councillor:
Prince Oyefusi is one of the trusted allies of the incumbent Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government, having been in his administration since when he first emerged as the Sole Administrator of the council and in his two subsequent tenures as elected Chairman.
He is currently a Supervisor and also well known to the party leadership.
Oyefusi, who is a member of the TMM/TMG, was present at the screening for the aspirants.
Chief Bisoro Dawodu – Olowosago, a grassroots mobiliser:
Chief Bisoro is a member of the Justice Forum (JF) and a strong voice on the streets of Ikorodu.
He is an ally of the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr Nurudeen Agbaje, and he’s quite popular within the Ikorodu society.
He attended the screening.
Prince Eniayewun Reuben Oyewole:
Prince Eniayewun is also one of the aspirants that attended the screening.
Mr Idowu Alli, abroad – based businessman:
Alli is a strong member of the Justice Forum and currently based abroad.
He too failed to attend the screening.
