By Bilesanmi Abayomi
As political activities intensify in Lagos State following the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections, political analyst and President of the Ta’awun Humanitarian Forum, Taiwo Lasisi, has offered a measured assessment of the implications of the defection of Iyiola Omisore from the APC to the Accord Party.
Speaking on the possible effects of Omisore’s departure on the political future of Kafilat Adetola Ogbara in the Kosofe Federal Constituency, Lasisi stressed the need to strike a balance between party loyalty and individual political interests.
According to him, democratic culture requires aspirants who participate in party primaries to accept the outcome once a candidate emerges. He noted that, irrespective of personal disappointments, party members are expected to rally behind the party’s flag bearer and mobilise their supporters and resources toward securing victory in the general election.
Commenting on Omisore’s exit from the APC, Lasisi cautioned against underestimating the veteran politician’s influence. He referenced the 2018 Osun State governorship rerun, where Omisore’s political support was widely regarded as instrumental to the APC’s success.
“Otunba Iyiola Omisore stands as a political plus for any political party he joins and a political minus to any party he leaves,” Lasisi said. “Underrate him to your peril.”
On speculations that Hon. Ogbara could also leave the APC following Omisore’s defection, Lasisi offered a different perspective. He argued that the lawmaker enjoys substantial political support both within Lagos and at the federal level, suggesting that she has alternatives within the party and may not necessarily follow the same path.
Addressing reports of possible legal action and rumours of a potential defection aimed at challenging APC House of Representatives candidate Mayor Dele Oshinowo, Lasisi advised caution. He warned that political defections driven by disappointment often amount to risky gambles that have historically left many politicians politically stranded.
“Only the starry-eyed political idealists would want to cross over from the current political party where they are disqualified to another political party of unknown destination,” he remarked.
Lasisi concluded by wishing Hon. Ogbara success as she rounds off her current mandate and expressed hope that future political developments in the Kosofe Federal Constituency would ultimately serve the interests and welfare of the people, regardless of party affiliation.