The Vice Chairman of Agege Local Government Area in Lagos State, Mr Oluwagbenga Abiola, has withdrawn from the race for the council chairmanship position ahead of the July 12, 2025, local government elections.
Abiola announced his decision on Wednesday, stating that he stepped down in favour of Abdulganiyu Obasa, son of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, Abiola made it clear that his withdrawal was voluntary and rooted in loyalty to his political mentor, Speaker Obasa.
“I will never go against my leader, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa. This is the man who made me,” he said. “From appointing me as his Special Assistant on Media in 2015 to supporting my rise as Sole Administrator in 2016, Secretary to the Local Government in 2017, and Vice Chairman in 2021, he has been instrumental in my political journey.”
Abiola dismissed rumours that he was pressured to step down, stating that his decision aligns with the party’s position and the collective will of stakeholders in Agege.
“Yes, I aspired. Every Vice Chairman dreams of becoming Chairman. But the party has spoken, and I agree with the consensus. Leaders and stakeholders have rallied behind Hon. Obasa’s son, and I support that fully,” he added.
He also praised Speaker Obasa’s contributions to the development of Agege and pledged to continue serving the people under the party’s platform.
“I believe bigger responsibilities lie ahead. I remain committed to the party and trust my leader to recommend me for greater roles when the time comes,” Abiola stated.
He further directed members of his political support group, the Obasa Youth Alliance, to rally behind the party’s decision and ensure victory in the coming council polls.
