By Bilesanmi Abayomi
In an exclusive interview with Kosofe Post, Otunba Seyi Odufowokan, sheds light on the reasons why incumbent Chairman of Ikosi Isheri, Princess Samiat Bada, cannot run for office in 2025. Odufowokan, who insists on being the authentic Ikosi-Isheri APC LCDA Chairman, discusses various issues surrounding the party and its leadership.
KP: Can you introduce yourself for the record?
Otunba Seyi Odufowokan: I am Otunba Abiodun Oluwaseyi Odufowokan, the APC LCDA Chairman of Ikosi Isheri and the Mandate Group Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA.
KP: You have identified yourself as the APC Ikosi Isheri LCDA Chairman, while others claim the same position. What is your stance on this?
Otunba: Well, anyone can claim any position, but from the historical perspective, I was the Deputy Chairman of Jegede before becoming the authentic Chairman of the party. Our party leaders had called for a meeting to determine the next LGA Chairman, following Jegede’s completion of two terms. According to the instructions from the GAC, the Deputy Chairman, if serving a single term, should succeed as the next LGA Chairman. However, they conducted a flawed composition of the LGA Excos, and with the support of Hon. Rotimi Agunsoye, who believed in justice, I became the Chairman of the party. As of now, I am the undisputed APC LGA Chairman of Ikosi Isheri.
KP: It is noteworthy that some of the legacy projects initiated by the late Engr. Abdulfatai Ayodele Oyesanya, the former Ikosi Isheri LCDA Chairman, were completed under the administration of Princess Samiat Bada. Were similar gestures extended to Oyesanya’s family?
Otunba: I prefer not to comment on that matter, as politics should be separate from administration. The Council Chairman represents the interests of Ikosi Isheri, regardless of political affiliations. The government’s continuity ensures that projects initiated by one administration are carried forward by the next. As for the specific naming of projects or allocation of shops, it falls under the purview of the council administration, not my concern as a political figure. However, I can confirm that a portion of the hall in the council complex was named after Engineer Abdulfatai Ayodele Oyesanya, who played a significant role in its completion. As for the market you mentioned, I am not aware of the details as I have not visited it. It is possible that the market was initiated by Engineer Abdulfatai Ayodele Oyesanya, but whether it was named after him or not, I cannot say. My main focus is on the politics of Ikosi Isheri, particularly within our party, the APC, where I hold a prominent position.
KP: How do you assess Princess Samiat Bada’s administration after two years in office?
Otunba: The local government’s tenure was extended to four years during the tenure of H. E Akinwunmi Ambode. As we approach the two-year mark, there is still ample time for anyone to evaluate and decide on their opinion. Recently, there has been speculation about the chairmanship position and potential changes in leadership within our party. Princess Samiat Bada claims that she is serving her first term, having completed Engineer Abdulfatai Ayodele Oyesanya’s tenure and continuing for a full term. Whether the party hierarchy deems this as her first term or a bonus term, it remains to be seen. However, it is important to note that she has been sworn into office twice as Chairman. The constitution’s provisions regarding a Council Chairman being sworn in thrice are unclear to me, but ultimately, the party hierarchy will determine the way forward when the time comes.