By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A brief encounter between Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, the incumbent lawmaker representing Kosofe Federal Constituency, and Mayor Dele Oshinowo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the constituency in the 2027 general election, has drawn attention amid reported divisions within the party.
The incident occurred at a public gathering in Kosofe, where Oshinowo was seen moving around the venue, greeting guests and exchanging pleasantries.
According to video footage and eyewitness accounts, Oshinowo approached Ogbara, who was seated among other attendees, addressed her as “Alhaja” and extended his hand for a handshake.
Ogbara declined the gesture, responding in Yoruba: “Bawo ni, pele. Mi o le shake e,” which translates to, “How are you, sorry. I can’t shake you.”
Oshinowo smiled and continued greeting other guests at the event.
Encounter Sparks Reactions Online
The exchange has generated mixed reactions on social media, with commenters interpreting the interaction differently.
Some critics described Ogbara’s response as unnecessary, questioning why she declined the handshake in a public setting. Others viewed the incident against the backdrop of reported political disagreements within the Lagos APC over the Kosofe Federal Constituency ticket for the 2027 elections.
Supporters of Oshinowo also interpreted the encounter as a reflection of the political contest surrounding the constituency, while other reactions focused on the personal interaction between the two politicians.
The incident comes amid reported tensions following the emergence of Oshinowo as the APC candidate for the Kosofe federal seat, currently occupied by Ogbara.
Neither Ogbara nor Oshinowo had issued an official statement on the encounter as of the time of reporting.