By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Political developments in Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA) have taken a dramatic turn following the recent passage of the amended Local Government Administrative Law by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The newly enacted legislation, which restricts the tenure of vice chairpersons who assume office due to the death or impeachment of their principals, has sent ripples through the political terrain, particularly ahead of the July 2025 local government elections.
At the centre of the unfolding drama is the incumbent chairperson, Hon. Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada, who rose to office in 2020 after the demise of her then-principal, Engr. Abdulfatai Oyesanya. Bada completed the remainder of that administration and subsequently won a fresh term in 2021, which is due to end on July 25, 2025.
Despite already taking the oath of office twice, Bada emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s anointed candidate for the upcoming polls. However, the passage of the new law now casts a shadow over her eligibility, as it appears to disqualify any individual who has served two consecutive terms under such conditions from contesting again.
In the wake of this development, members of the Coalition of Chairmanship Aspirants within the APC have ramped up their campaigns, viewing the legal amendment as an opportunity to reposition themselves. The coalition, which had long expressed reservations about a possible third-term bid by the incumbent, has seized on the law to press its case for internal party democracy and a change in leadership.
“The new law has clearly altered the game. It affirms our position that power should rotate and that no one individual should overstay their welcome,” said one of the aspirants, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Political analysts suggest that the legal change may not only derail Bada’s ambition but could also widen the contest within the APC as aspirants scramble to consolidate support and secure the party’s nomination in the coming weeks.
As the July 12 election date draws near, attention is now focused on how the APC leadership will interpret and implement the new law, and whether Hon. Bada will proceed with her campaign or bow out ahead of the candidate substitution deadline set for early July.
With mounting pressure and shifting allegiances, the coming days promise to be decisive for the future of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA’s leadership and the broader political stability of the Kosofe axis.