By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The political atmosphere in Kosofe became charged this week after the Chairperson of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Princess Samiat Bada, stirred controversy with remarks questioning the idea of female political solidarity.
Bada made the statement during an APC mega rally where she openly endorsed Mayor Dele Oshinowo for the Kosofe Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives ahead of the party’s primary election.
Addressing party supporters at the rally, the council chairperson reportedly described the popular phrase “women supporting women” as a “scam,” a comment that has since generated intense reactions within political circles in Lagos State.
The development is believed to be linked to the growing political tension surrounding the Kosofe Federal Constituency race, particularly the strained relationship between Bada and the incumbent House of Representatives member, Hon. Kafilat Adetola Ogbara.
Political observers alleged that disagreements emerged during the recent local government electioneering process, with reports suggesting that Ogbara was associated with political interests opposed to Bada’s return for a second term as Ikosi-Isheri LCDA chairperson.
Sources within the APC claimed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s intervention through the implementation of the 2025 Local Government administrative law eventually influenced the political outcome in Bada’s favour.
Apparently reacting to the perceived political betrayal, Bada used the rally to caution party members against making electoral decisions based solely on gender considerations.
“Women supporting women is a scam,” she reportedly declared while urging APC members to support candidates based on competence, loyalty, and performance rather than gender sentiments.
Her remarks have since divided opinions among party faithful and political analysts.
Some stakeholders backed Bada’s position, arguing that politics should remain performance-driven and not revolve around gender-based emotional support. They described her endorsement of Mayor Dele Oshinowo as a reflection of strategic political calculation and governance considerations.
Others, however, expressed concern that the public disagreement between two prominent female politicians could negatively affect advocacy for increased women participation in politics and leadership positions.
Supporters of Ogbara argued that political alliances and endorsements are natural aspects of democracy and should not be interpreted as hostility toward women in leadership.
The controversy comes at a time when political activities within the APC in Kosofe are intensifying ahead of the party primaries, with several aspirants and stakeholders positioning themselves for strategic advantage.
As debates continue, analysts note that the incident once again reflects the complex realities of grassroots politics in Lagos, where loyalty, influence, performance, and power structures often outweigh identity-based political expectations.