By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The political scene in Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA), under Kosofe, Lagos State, is witnessing an unusual surge in chairmanship aspirants ahead of the 2025 elections. This wave of contenders signals strong opposition to the re-election bid of the incumbent chairman, Samiat Bada, as many stakeholders seek a change in leadership.
Bada’s Political Journey and Achievements
Samiat Bada’s rise in Ikosi-Isheri politics has been remarkable. She initially served as vice-chairman before completing the tenure of her late principal. She later secured her own four-year mandate, benefiting from the political structure of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
One of her notable achievements includes securing a permanent APC Secretariat for the LCDA after the party was evicted from its former Ekiti location. This move has strengthened her political influence within the party. However, despite her contributions, many argue that it is time for new leadership.
Rising Opposition and Political Fallout
A significant factor driving opposition against Bada is the perception that she played a role in blocking Hon. Ekundayo Alebiosu, the current Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront and Infrastructure Development, from securing the APC ticket for the 2023 Kosofe Federal Constituency election. This has created divisions within the party, with some members vowing to prevent her re-election.
Despite the opposition, reports suggest that two key figures in the APC Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in Kosofe—Otunba Bushira Alebiosu and Omoba Olumuyiwa Sosanya—are backing her return. If true, this endorsement could provide a major boost to her campaign.
The Term Limit Debate: A Legal Loophole?
Another argument against Bada’s re-election bid is the debate over term limits for executive chairmen. Critics claim she has already served two terms and should step aside. However, unlike deputy governors and vice presidents, who are constitutionally limited to two terms even after succeeding a deceased or incapacitated leader, no clear restriction exists for Nigeria’s 774 LGAs and LCDAs. This legal ambiguity leaves room for political maneuvering.
Power Brokers and the Road Ahead
The battle for the APC chairmanship ticket in Ikosi-Isheri LCDA will not be determined by popularity alone but by control of the party structure and delegate system. One key player in this political contest is Hon. Moyosore Ogunlewe, the Executive Chairman of Kosofe Local Government. His ability to secure the APC ticket in 2021, despite facing stiff competition, highlights the unpredictable nature of the race.
For the growing number of aspirants hoping to unseat Bada, success will depend on strategic alliances and party consultations. Without this, they risk being sidelined by the very system they seek to challenge.
As the 2025 elections approach, Ikosi-Isheri LCDA is poised for a fiercely contested political battle—one that could reshape its leadership for years to come.