By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Reactions have poured in following the marathon endorsement of Princess Samiat Bada, Chairperson of Ikosi Isheri LCDA in Kosofe, as she gears up for a potential extended term in office. The endorsement, received separately from Ikosi Isheri cabinet members, legislative arm members, and APC party executives, has sparked controversy amidst allegations of coercion and political maneuvering.
Reports gathered by Kosofe Post indicate that some stakeholders, including Councilor Ganiu Oni representing Magodo Changsha, were allegedly ambushed into endorsing the Chairperson. Oni, a loyalist of Kosofe Federal constituency lawmaker, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, previously had a strained relationship with Samiat Bada following the 2023 General election. Observers view these endorsements as strategic moves to safeguard positions and monthly salaries, rather than genuine expressions of support.
In response to the purported endorsement, frontline Ikosi Isheri LCDA Chairmanship aspirant, Prince Bidemi Akintunde-Stainless, issued a statement titled “No to Political Endorsement Under Duress.” Akintunde-Stainless emphasized his commitment to inclusive governance, equality, and accessibility, contrasting his approach with what he described as coerced endorsements witnessed in the current political climate.
However, despite the endorsements from cabinet members, councilors, and party executives, the ultimate decision rests with two All Progressives Congress Chieftains in Kosofe, Otunba Bushira Alebiosu and Omoba Ademuyiwa Sosanya. Their nod for a second term for Samiat Bada echoes the sentiment expressed by GAC leaders during the APC primary election in 2021, urging party members to support her continuation in office until 2025.
Princess Samiat Bada assumed office as Vice Chairman in January 2020 following the demise of former Council Chairman Engr. Abdulfatai Oyesanya. After completing the unexpired term, she sought reelection in 2021 and received the endorsement to complete a second term. As preparations for the 2025 Ikosi Isheri LCDA Chairmanship race unfold, attention remains focused on the stance of critical kingmakers in the political landscape.