Controversies Trail APC Primaries in Lagos as Hon. Ganiu Egunjobi Responds to Criticisms

Strategic Insights -

The just-concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship and councillorship primaries in Lagos State have been marred by controversies, with some dissatisfied party members accusing party leaders of imposing their preferred aspirants on the party. The Executive Chairman of Agege local government area, Hon. Ganiu Egunjobi, shares his views on the primary process, the allegations of imposition, and his achievements in office.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hon. Ganiu Egunjobi defends the APC's primary process, stating that it was transparent, free, and fair, with the election committee putting up a good show and deserving commendation.
  • He disputed claims that Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, imposed his subordinates and son on the party candidates in both Agege and Orile-Agege, pointing out that the protesters were led by "political neophytes" who had their own ulterior motives.
  • Egunjobi drew parallels between the Obasa's situation and that of other democracies, including the United States, where leaders have appointed their family members to prestigious positions, such as JF Kennedy's brother Robert as Attorney General.
  • He highlighted the achievements of his administration, including the construction of primary health centers, roads, classrooms, and the establishment of a Computer-Based Test center, which enables JAMB candidates to sit for exams at their doorsteps.
  • Egunjobi also mentioned his deradicalization program for louts, which has been successful in rehabilitating youths and providing them with skills and stipends.
  • He rejected the idea of an Awori and non-indigene dichotomy in Agege politics, stating that he is an Awori himself and a statutory chief as Otun of Egbaland, and that such divisions do not hold water.

Statistics:

  • Over 700 non-pensionable staff were employed by the Local Government Service Commission under Egunjobi's watch, with each placed on a monthly stipend of N30,000.
  • Officers of the security arm, codename Paramole, receive a monthly stipend of N50,000 each to maintain peace and order in the community.
  • Several classrooms were built in public schools, and some were rehabilitated by Egunjobi's administration.
  • The Local Government has a Computer-Based Test center, equipped and constructed by Egunjobi's administration, which enables JAMB candidates to sit for exams at their doorsteps.

Sources:

  • Interview with Hon. Ganiu Egunjobi
  • Nigerian Tribune article
  • Punch News article