By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The campaign of Mayor Dele Oshinowo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Kosofe Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, has brought questions of political loyalty and shifting alliances to the fore in Lagos political circles.
Following the completion of his tenure as Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Oshinowo declared his intention to seek election to the National Assembly. The move was followed by the realignment of some former political appointees and associates, several of whom reportedly began supporting rival candidates.
Although political realignments are common during election cycles, the decision by some former appointees to campaign against their former principal has attracted attention within the constituency.
Amid the changing alliances, a group of former aides, grassroots supporters and political associates has continued to support Oshinowo’s candidacy. Four prominent figures often described locally as the “Four Wise Men” are Hon. Saheed Elewedu, popularly known as Saheed Omogbolahan; Moshood Fashanu, a councillor representing Agboyi-Ketu Ward B; Tosin Ogundipe; and Olalekan Abideen.
Elewedu, a former councillor and cabinet member of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, has remained involved in the campaign alongside Fashanu, Ogundipe, Abideen and other supporters.
Their continued association with Oshinowo has been interpreted by some local political observers as a demonstration of loyalty during a period of intense political competition. However, the political choices of individuals remain subject to personal convictions, interests and freedom of association.
The developments have also revived debate among political commentators over the place of loyalty in Nigerian politics. While one view holds that political actors must constantly adjust their alliances in response to changing circumstances, another argues that enduring loyalty remains an important foundation of political relationships.
For Oshinowo’s supporters, the continued backing of his former aides and associates represents a commitment to their political relationship despite the pressures surrounding the 2027 race.