By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Kosofe Federal Constituency has continued to generate discussion among political stakeholders, residents, and observers following the defeat of incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Kafilat Adetola Ogbara.
Ogbara lost the party’s ticket to former Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mayor Dele Oshinowo, a development that has prompted varying interpretations regarding the factors that influenced the outcome.
READ MORE: Ogbara’s Struggle for Unity in Kosofe Politics
Several commentators who reacted to the result pointed to issues ranging from grassroots engagement and party relations to internal political dynamics within the constituency.
Community advocate and former Kosofe Local Government Supervisor, Ganiyu Olamiji Oyebanjo, popularly known as GOCO, said elected officials must maintain regular engagement with constituents and key stakeholders throughout their tenure.
According to him, political office holders who become disconnected from grassroots structures often face challenges during party primaries.
Similarly, Engr. Olusola Emmanuel Adedayo, Publisher of MOSCHINOBLOG, argued that sustained interaction with constituents and local stakeholders remains an important factor in building political support.
He noted that elected representatives must strike a balance between national responsibilities and constituency engagement to maintain strong political relationships at the grassroots level.
Brand and Image Strategist, Lanre Aborisade, described the primary election as an opportunity for reflection, noting that party politics requires continuous engagement with members and stakeholders.
According to him, accessibility, consultation, party loyalty, and grassroots participation remain important elements in sustaining political relevance within the APC.
Public affairs commentator, Ayanfe Omojuwa, viewed the outcome as evidence of changing political expectations among voters and party members, suggesting that performance, visibility, and local engagement are increasingly shaping political decisions.
Despite the setback, some supporters expressed optimism about Ogbara’s political future, describing her defeat as a temporary challenge from which she could recover.
Oyebanji Aina, who identified as a long-time supporter, said the outcome should serve as an opportunity for reassessment and political rebuilding ahead of future contests.
Meanwhile, attention has shifted to Mayor Dele Oshinowo, who emerged as the APC candidate for the constituency.
Residents and stakeholders have expressed expectations that the former council chairman will maintain close engagement with constituents and provide effective representation if elected.
One resident, Sulyman Olayiwola, said voters would be watching closely to see whether Oshinowo remains accessible and responsive to the concerns of the constituency.
Political observers note that the primary election underscores the importance of grassroots mobilisation, stakeholder engagement, and internal party dynamics in determining electoral outcomes.
As preparations begin for the general election, attention is expected to remain on how political actors across the constituency respond to the lessons emerging from the APC primary contest.
Disclaimer
Comments expressed here do not reflect the opinions of KosofePost newspapers or any employee thereof.