The campaign for the Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency seat gathered momentum as stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Yaba, Ebute Metta West and Ebute Metta East openly declared support for Prince Hon. Abdulakeem Omolaja Animashahun, while calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to uphold zoning and political fairness within the constituency.
The appeal formed a major focus during the official launch of Animashahun’s campaign, which witnessed the presence of party chieftains, community leaders, ward executives, grassroots mobilisers and supporters from different parts of Lagos Mainland.
At the gathering, party stakeholders expressed concerns over what they described as the prolonged exclusion of Ebute Metta West from producing a representative for the federal constituency, insisting that the time had come for justice, balance and inclusiveness in the APC’s political arrangement.
They argued that for about 27 years, the area had remained politically disadvantaged and urged the leadership of the party to ensure that the principle of zoning is respected ahead of the emergence of the party’s candidate for the House of Representatives seat.
The stakeholders equally reaffirmed their loyalty to President Tinubu and pledged total support for his administration and second-term ambition in the 2027 general elections.
Addressing party members at the event, Dr. Segun Oshile spoke extensively on his family’s political involvement in Yaba and Lagos Mainland, recalling the contributions made by his grandfather, the late J.B. Oshile, to political development within the constituency.
He noted that his political background, which dates back to the era of the old Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), shaped his belief in supporting leaders who understand the realities of the grassroots and remain committed to public service.
Oshile described Animashahun as a dependable, humble and people-oriented politician with the capacity to offer quality and effective representation for residents of Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency.
Other speakers at the event stressed the need for experienced and competent representation at the National Assembly, noting that Animashahun’s experience as a lawyer and grassroots politician gives him a strong understanding of the challenges confronting the people.
Mr. Anthony Clever stated that the constituency requires a representative with sound legal knowledge and close ties to the grassroots, while Hon. John Obalade and Mr. Femu Olayide highlighted the importance of strengthening local government administration and expanding social support initiatives for residents.
They added that purposeful representation at the federal level would help complement developmental programmes already ongoing across communities within the constituency.
The stakeholders also urged APC members and delegates to participate actively in the party’s primary election slated for May 15, while calling for unity and overwhelming support for Animashahun’s aspiration.
Speaking during the event, Prince Hon. Abdulakeem Omolaja Animashahun thanked party faithful and residents for their encouragement and confidence in his leadership aspiration.
He explained that his ambition is driven by a desire to provide inclusive, responsive and people-centred representation that prioritises the welfare of constituents.
According to him, his agenda would focus on youth empowerment, vocational training, women participation and economic opportunities aimed at improving the socio-economic condition of residents across Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency.
Animashahun further assured supporters that, if elected, he would remain accessible to the people and champion policies and programmes that directly address grassroots concerns and community development.
