Stakeholders across Lagos Mainland, comprising Ebute Metta West, Ebute Metta East and Yaba, have unanimously endorsed Honourable Prince Abdul Akeem Animashaun as their consensus candidate for the House of Representatives, while supporting the zoning of the seat to Ebute Metta West.
The endorsement was announced during a press conference attended by political leaders, community representatives and grassroots stakeholders, who described the move as a step toward addressing what they called a longstanding imbalance in political representation within the constituency.
The stakeholders resolved to present Animashaun as the sole candidate for the federal legislative seat and called for the zoning of the position to Ebute Metta West, citing the need for justice, equity and fairness.
According to them, Ebute Metta West has experienced political exclusion since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, a development they said has affected unity within the constituency and could impact party cohesion if not addressed.
They noted that despite its contributions to electoral victories, particularly in support of the All Progressives Congress, the area has not received proportional political recognition, alleging that about 99 percent of elective and appointive positions have been dominated by Yaba and Ebute Metta East over the years.
Stakeholders from Ebute Metta East and Yaba expressed support for zoning the seat to Ebute Metta West, describing it as a necessary step to restore balance and promote inclusive governance.
They said the endorsement of Animashaun reflects a shared commitment to fairness, political stability and broader representation, adding that his candidacy has gained acceptance across different segments of the constituency.
The stakeholders further stated that Animashaun enjoys support from youths, religious leaders, traditional rulers and community influencers, describing him as a unifying figure capable of advancing collective interests.
Speaking at the event, Comrade Dosugan Caleb, representing the Makoko waterfront community, highlighted challenges faced by residents over a disputed waterfront reclamation project that began in 2020. He said the community’s concerns remain unresolved despite legal action and urged Animashaun to prioritise their plight if elected.
Also speaking, Mrs Bolingo from Yaba decried what she described as persistent marginalisation in Lagos Mainland and pledged support for the candidate, stressing the need for accountable representation.
Engineer Akamu Ganiu from Ebute Metta West commended Animashaun’s leadership qualities and commitment to grassroots development, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver effective representation.
Other supporters, including Mrs Helen Ilegbodu and Hon Samson Akanni Sambakiu, cited his background as a lawyer and his record of service as reasons for their endorsement.
Speakers at the forum emphasised the need for unity among Ebute Metta West, Ebute Metta East and Yaba, noting that collective action is essential to achieving equitable political representation and sustainable development in Lagos Mainland.
They called on party leaders and relevant authorities to respect the demand for zoning and inclusiveness, describing it as a necessary step toward strengthening democratic progress in the constituency.
