By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The re-election of Princess Samiat Bada as Executive Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA) is facing legal contestation, following concerns over her eligibility for a third term.
Kosofe Post has reliably gathered that a civil society group, through legal representation from the chambers of renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, instituted a suit at the Lagos State High Court on the eve of the July 12 local government elections.
The lawsuit lists Bada, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) as defendants.
Eligibility Questioned Under New Law
At the heart of the suit is the claim that Bada is barred from seeking a third term under the Lagos State Local Government Administration Law 2025, which was signed into law by Governor Sanwo-Olu on May 5. The Coalition of Chairmanship Aspirants in Ikosi-Isheri LCDA argues that having previously taken the oath of office twice, Bada stands disqualified.
However, Bada and her party have hinged their defence on an Executive Order 6, which seeks to delay the implementation of the new law until August 4—post-election. The order, though issued, has not been ratified by the Lagos State House of Assembly, raising constitutional and procedural concerns.
Otto-Owori LCDA Precedent Cited
Observers have drawn parallels with a recent development in Otto-Owori LCDA, where a vice chairman, upon the demise of the substantive chairman, resigned before contesting the elections, subsequently winning a new mandate. Analysts say this was a cautious move to avert future legal complications and offers a model for lawful succession.
Critics argue that the Bada situation exemplifies selective application of the law and have called for judicial clarification on the legitimacy of the executive order.
Court Case and Swearing-In Ahead
Although the identity of the civil society group remains undisclosed, court proceedings reportedly commenced on July 11, with the matter slated for further hearing in the coming weeks.
Despite the legal battle, Governor Sanwo-Olu is expected to swear in all newly elected chairmen across Lagos State next week, covering 20 Local Government Areas and 37 LCDAs, including Ikosi-Isheri.
The unfolding case could have far-reaching implications for tenure limits and the legal framework governing local government leadership in Lagos State.