By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A simmering political rift within Kosofe Constituency 1 has spilled into the public space, as supporters of the lawmaker representing the area, Hon. Sanni Ganiyu Okanlawon, and his former ally, Hon. Ganiyu Olamiji Oyebanjo, popularly known as GOCO, engage in a heated exchange marked by claims, counterclaims, and resurfaced political “receipts.”
The tension escalated this week following the release of a throwback testimonial by aides of Hon. Okanlawon, aimed at countering sustained criticism from Oyebanjo and his supporters.
In what appears to be a strategic move, Okanlawon’s camp circulated a video clip and accompanying text titled “Attestation by Mr. Ganiyu Oyebanjo.” In the clip, Oyebanjo is seen praising Okanlawon, describing him as a “leader to beat.”
The text accompanying the video quotes Oyebanjo as commending Okanlawon’s consistency, people-centred leadership, and visible impact, portraying him as a formidable political figure within the constituency. Observers interpret the release as an attempt to question the credibility of Oyebanjo’s current opposition and portray it as politically inconsistent.
Reacting to the resurfaced testimonial, Oyebanjo did not deny making the remarks but suggested that political relationships in Kosofe have evolved over time. He argued that shifting alliances are not unusual within the constituency’s political history.
Oyebanjo further alleged that Hon. Okanlawon himself had previously distanced himself from influential political figures, including Otunba Bushira Alebiosu and the current Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon. Ekundayo Alebiosu, before aligning with the late Senator Sikiru Adebayo Osinowo.
“Didn’t Okanlawon once condemn Baba Bush and Dayo Bush and move to Senator Osinowo’s camp?” Oyebanjo queried. “Ask him what happened.”
The exchange underscores widening cracks within the local political structure, as both camps seek to frame the narrative in their favour. While Okanlawon’s allies rely on past endorsements to blunt present criticism, Oyebanjo’s response points to deeper grievances rooted in historical political realignments.
As the 2027 election cycle gradually approaches, political observers in Kosofe are closely monitoring the unfolding dispute to determine whether it represents a temporary fallout or signals a more permanent shift in the constituency’s power dynamics.