By Bilesanmi Abayomi
In a dramatic political shake-up in Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA), incumbent Councillor Ganiu Oni has lost his bid for a second term representing Ward B (Shangisha/Magodo) following a fallout with his longtime political benefactor, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara.
Oni, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside Ogbara, had enjoyed her strong backing in previous elections. His political rise — including his appointment under the late Council Chairman, Engr. Abdulfatai Oyesanya, and his election as councillor from 2021 to 2025 — was largely attributed to her influence.
However, their alliance took a nosedive after a video surfaced online showing Oni endorsing Ogbara’s political rival, incumbent Chairman Mayoress Samiat Abolanle Bada, for another term in office. Although Oni claimed he was neither coerced nor induced in the video, the public endorsement was reportedly made without Ogbara’s knowledge or approval.
The fallout was swift and decisive. During the recently held parallel APC primaries in Ward B, two candidates emerged, but latest reports confirm that Sobanke, a female aspirant backed by Ogbara, has secured the party’s ticket for the July 12 local government elections—effectively ending Oni’s re-election hopes.
Political analysts say Oni’s perceived betrayal and disloyalty were critical in sealing his fate. A source close to the federal lawmaker told KosofePost that Ogbara, deeply offended by Oni’s actions, chose not to forgive and instead threw her support behind a new candidate.
As one political insider put it, “There are three people you don’t fight in politics—women, journalists, and musicians—unless you want a battle that never ends. Oni may have just learned that the hard way.”