By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The race for the Kosofe Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 general elections is gradually gaining momentum, with early political alignments and subtle endorsements shaping the narrative across the constituency.
This follows the declaration by former Agboyi-Ketu LCDA Chairman, Dele Oshinowo, to contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress. His entry has sparked conversations among party members and residents, although much of the discourse has been driven by sentiment and personal loyalties rather than critical evaluation of competence, performance, and the constitutional rights of aspirants.
Observers note that the principle of equal opportunity to contest elections—a cornerstone of democratic practice—has received limited attention in ongoing debates.
Council Leadership Signals Preferred Candidates
Across the three councils within the constituency, the body language and public actions of political leaders appear to reveal emerging preferences ahead of party primaries.
In Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area, the Executive Chairman, Samiat Abolanle Bada, alongside her aides, has openly shown support for Oshinowo. Campaign materials linked to his aspiration have been widely circulated within the council’s political structure, suggesting a clear alignment.
Similarly, in Kosofe Local Government, the council chairman, Moyosore Ogunlewe, has publicly backed the incumbent lawmaker, Kafilat Adetola Ogbara. During the fourth quarter 2025 “Back to School” programme, Ogunlewe openly expressed support for her second-term bid, a statement widely interpreted as an endorsement.
Attention Turns to Agboyi-Ketu Chairman
Amid these open endorsements, political attention has shifted to Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area, particularly the stance of its chairman, Adetola Adunni Abubakar.
Abubakar occupies a unique political position, having previously served under Oshinowo as Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, while also maintaining ties with the incumbent lawmaker.
Unlike her counterparts, however, she has remained publicly silent, offering no clear indication of her political alignment. This strategic silence has fueled speculation among stakeholders, with many closely monitoring her next move as the contest develops.
Party Dynamics and Emerging Divisions
Further complicating the political landscape are reports that some members of the APC’s influential Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) may not support the incumbent’s re-election bid. Party insiders suggest that alternative aspirants could be receiving backing from key stakeholders, pointing to possible internal divisions ahead of the primaries.
Outlook
As political activities intensify, analysts say the interplay of endorsements, alliances, and strategic neutrality—particularly from key actors like Abubakar—will be critical in shaping the trajectory of the race.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the Kosofe Federal Constituency contest is increasingly seen as a test of party cohesion, grassroots influence, and the ability of aspirants to convert early political signals into electoral advantage.