By Bilesanmi Abayomi
As the 2025 local government elections approach, the influence of the Bashir Oloruntoyin Saliu Royal Family of Oworonshoki Kingdom, led by HRM Oba Babatunde Saliu (Elebo II), is set to shape the contest for the Oworonshoki councilorship seat.
Historically, the royal family has played a significant role in local politics. The late Oba Bashir Oloruntoyin Saliu (Elebo I), who passed away on August 31, 2021, saw his son, Hon. Kehinde Saliu, serve as councilor of Oworonshoki from 2017 to 2025. Now, all eyes are on the reigning monarch to determine whether another member of the family will step forward to contest or if he will anoint a preferred candidate.
Oba Babatunde Saliu, a seasoned politician before ascending the throne, previously served as Personal Assistant to President Bola Tinubu during his tenure as Lagos State Governor, later becoming a Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Vice Chairman of Kosofe Local Government. His deep-rooted political experience and connections make him a key figure in the upcoming election.
During the 2023 general elections, as observed by KosofePost, the monarch was actively involved in mobilizing residents to exercise their civic rights rather than remaining within the palace. This demonstrated his commitment to political engagement and grassroots influence.
With the election fast approaching, political analysts believe that if no member of the Saliu family declares interest in the councilorship race, Oba Babatunde Saliu will still have a decisive hand in selecting who represents Oworonshoki. His endorsement could heavily sway the outcome, reaffirming the royal family’s longstanding impact on Kosofe and Lagos State politics.
