By Bilesanmi Abayomi
With the July 12 local government elections fast approaching in Lagos State, Kosofe Local Government is witnessing an unusual political climate, as the fiercest challenge to incumbent Chairman Hon. Moyosore Ogunlewe has come not from opposition parties, but from within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
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In the weeks leading up to the APC primary held on May 10, political tension in Kosofe revolved around internal party disputes, with several influential factions openly opposing Ogunlewe’s re-election bid. Party insiders and observers dubbed the intra-party friction the “real opposition,” as multiple petitions were filed in an attempt to disqualify the chairman—a political tactic colloquially known as Mukuro Lona, or “remove him from the path.”
Despite the turbulence, Ogunlewe emerged winner in what many have described as a credible and transparent primary. The process, observers say, sharply contrasted with the controversy that trailed his first-term nomination, which had sparked criticism and discontent among party loyalists.
Since securing the party’s ticket, the once-frequent online attacks and criticisms aimed at Ogunlewe have dwindled. Internal dissent has visibly cooled, and there are no strong signs of opposition from rival political parties at present.
Community sentiments, captured through public commentary and media coverage, indicate that the APC in Kosofe has largely closed ranks behind its candidate. The seeming lack of viable opposition suggests that Hon. Ogunlewe is now positioned for a smooth return to office.
As election day draws nearer, political attention in Kosofe is shifting from fierce contestation to how the APC consolidates internal cohesion and maintains voter turnout in the absence of significant external threats. If current trends continue, Ogunlewe appears poised for a second term with minimal resistance.