Frontline aspirant for the Kosofe Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, Dele Oshinowo, has assured constituents of inclusive and people-oriented representation if elected, while appealing to members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for support ahead of the party’s May 15 primary election.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with KosofePost, the former Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area highlighted his record in local governance, party unity, grassroots engagement, and legislative priorities.
“Leadership Is Best Measured by Impact”
Responding to questions on how his experience as council chairman prepared him for national representation, Oshinowo pointed to several projects executed during his administration, including housing, road construction, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment initiatives.
According to him, his administration delivered over 270 housing units, making Agboyi-Ketu the first local council in Lagos State to develop housing estates at such scale.
“We constructed and rehabilitated roads, schools, healthcare facilities, markets, and sporting centres across the LCDA. We also established the Agboyi-Ketu ICT Hub to equip young people with digital skills and prepare them for opportunities in the modern economy,” he said.
He added that empowerment programmes such as the WeLift Initiative supported traders, artisans, youths, and senior citizens financially, stressing that governance must remain compassionate, innovative, and accountable.
“I believe these experiences have prepared me adequately to represent Kosofe Federal Constituency effectively at the National Assembly—not just as a lawmaker, but as a bridge between the people and government,” he stated.
Calls for APC Unity After Primaries
Speaking on the forthcoming APC primaries, Oshinowo stressed the need for unity among party members regardless of political preferences during the contest.
“The APC remains one united family in Kosofe, and no primary election should divide us,” he said.
He noted that political contests are normal in democratic systems and expressed respect for all aspirants participating in the race.
“Supporters of every aspirant are our brothers, sisters, and friends. At the end of the day, we all belong to the same progressive family,” he added.
Oshinowo pledged to prioritise reconciliation and inclusion after the primaries, maintaining that the collective interest of the party and development of Kosofe should supersede individual ambitions.
Legislative Priorities
On his legislative agenda, the aspirant identified youth unemployment, insecurity, and infrastructure deficits as key areas requiring urgent attention.
“My legislative focus will centre on people-oriented policies that create opportunities and improve living conditions,” he said.
He disclosed plans to champion initiatives focused on digital innovation, entrepreneurship, small business support, and economic empowerment for youths.
On security, Oshinowo said he would support laws and interventions aimed at strengthening community policing, intelligence gathering, and support for security agencies.
He also promised to pursue federal projects in road rehabilitation, drainage infrastructure, healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability across Kosofe.
“Representation Must Be People-Centred”
Addressing concerns that elected officials often disconnect from constituents after elections, Oshinowo promised to institutionalise regular engagement mechanisms if elected.
He proposed stakeholder consultations, youth and women forums, digital communication channels, and direct community interactions as part of efforts to maintain accessibility.
“One major approach we will adopt is meeting people exactly where they are—right at their doorsteps and within their communities,” he said.
“Why should the people always come to the representative when the representative can also go to the people?”
According to him, decentralising engagement would help leaders better understand the realities and priorities of various communities within the constituency.
He also pledged to maintain a fully functional constituency office that would serve as a direct link between residents and his office.
Commitment to Inclusive Governance
Oshinowo further emphasised the importance of inclusive governance, promising to expand opportunities for women, youths, and persons living with disabilities through policies and empowerment programmes.
“Inclusive governance is not optional; it is necessary for sustainable development,” he said.
He noted that underrepresented groups deserve equal access to healthcare, education, entrepreneurship support, leadership opportunities, and public infrastructure.
“My representation will ensure that no group is left behind and that everyone has a voice in the development of Kosofe,” he stated.
Appeal to Party Leaders and Delegates
Ahead of the APC primary election, Oshinowo appealed to party leaders, loyalists, and delegates to support his aspiration based on what he described as “proven capacity, visible impact, loyalty to the party, and genuine commitment to the people.”
“This aspiration is not driven by personal ambition alone; it is about building on the progress we have made and ensuring that Kosofe receives strong, responsive, and effective representation at the federal level,” he said.
He concluded by pledging continued commitment to service, unity, and development, expressing optimism about what he described as a new chapter for Kosofe built on “progress, inclusion, and results-driven leadership.”