By Bilesanmi Abayomi
In a comprehensive investigation by Kosofe Post, it has been revealed that the majority of councilors in Kosofe Federal Constituency, spanning from 1997 till date, have found their political careers confined within the boundaries of community representation, with none ascending to higher positions within the political hierarchy.
Traditionally, a Local Government Councillor is envisioned as a community representative contributing to the strategic direction of the Council. However, in Kosofe, the story takes a different turn, as these grassroots politicians, despite performing duties akin to their counterparts at higher levels of governance, face a lack of promotion and recognition beyond their councilorship roles.
Unlike their counterparts at the federal and state levels who enjoy substantial remuneration, allowances, and constituency project benefits, Kosofe councilors often find themselves reduced to errand roles for political stakeholders and labeled as rubber stamps for some Executive Chairmen.
As public opinions were sought on the matter, community developer and social critic, Oloye Salami Oluwaseun, expressed concern over the limited upward mobility for councilors in Kosofe. He emphasized that councilorship should ideally serve as a political blessing and a stepping stone for elevation to higher positions.
Oloye Salami cited examples from other local government areas, highlighting figures such as Rt Hon Obasa, Hon Rotimi Abiru, Sesan Dada in Ikorodu West, and Hon Bukky Adedeji, who transitioned from councilors to higher political positions. He urged stakeholders in Kosofe to emulate these areas and provide avenues for the career growth of educated men and women serving as councilors in the constituency.
The question now looms over whether councilorship in Kosofe Federal Constituency remains a political curse or if it can be transformed into the anticipated blessing and launchpad for political advancement.