The Vice Chairman of Agege Local Government Area in Lagos State, Mr. Oluwagbenga Abiola, has officially chickened out of the forthcoming chairmanship race scheduled for July 12, 2025.
Abiola revealed that he was stepping aside in favour of Abdulganiyu Obasa, son of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
A known political mentee of the Speaker, Abiola clarified that his decision was not connected to coercion but driven by loyalty and respect for his mentor.
Addressing journalists on Wednesday in Lagos, Abiola reiterated his unwavering commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and to Speaker Obasa’s leadership.
He described his withdrawal as a voluntary, well-considered move aimed at strengthening party unity and supporting the Speaker’s son in his political ambition.
The development follows recent calls by key stakeholders in Agege, who urged Speaker Obasa to endorse Abdulganiyu for the chairmanship, citing the Speaker’s enduring contributions to the area’s political and infrastructural growth.
Addressing speculations of internal pressure, Abiola dismissed such claims and instead expressed gratitude for Obasa’s continued support throughout his political journey.
He assured party members of his full backing for Abdulganiyu Obasa’s candidacy and reaffirmed his allegiance to both the party and its leadership structure.
“I will never go against my leader, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa. This is the man who made me,” Abiola stated.
He appointed me Special Assistant on Media when he became Speaker in 2015.
“In 2016, I was appointed Sole Administrator of Agege LGA, thanks to his recommendation to the governor. That appointment made me the youngest council boss in Lagos State at the time.
“In 2017, I became Secretary to the Local Government, and in 2021, Vice Chairman, all through the party’s and Speaker’s support. So, why would I oppose a man who built me politically and helped me grow in experience and influence?” He declared.
Although Abiola admitted to having aspired to the chairmanship, he made it clear that he respected the party’s collective decision.
“Yes, I aspired. Every Vice Chairman dreams of becoming Chairman. But the party has spoken, and I fully agree. Leaders and stakeholders have united. They’ve asked the Speaker to allow his son to contest, and I respect and support that,” he stated.
Abiola also expressed his commitment to serving the people, stating that he believed greater opportunities would come in the future.
“I trust my leader. He knows what’s best and can recommend me for even greater responsibilities when the time is right,” he said, adding: “I’m still young and full of energy. I’ll work for the party and ensure we achieve victory.”
Abiola said he had instructed members of his Obasa Youth Alliance to fully support the party’s decision.
