— A Special Investigative Feature by WordUp 213
" _They say democracy is the voice of the people—but what happens when the people are only allowed to whisper?"_
As 2025 local government elections loom, the political tempo in Surulere Constituencies 1 and 2 tells three different stories. From settled confidence to behind-the-scenes maneuvering and an uproar over imposition, WordUp 213, your trusted grassroots magazine, hit the streets to uncover what’s real, what’s rumour—and what’s coming.
SURULERE LG:
_The Calm Before the Ballot_
In Surulere Local Government, calm reigns. Hon. Suleiman Bamidele Yusuf, the incumbent Chairman, remains the popular front-runner. From Aguda to Akerele, his name draws nods and firm handshakes of approval. Though Olanrewaju Oshodi has signaled interest, the field appears largely settled.
" _He’s done well. We know him, we’ve seen the projects_ ," said a youth leader in Ward G1, Shaaka Ibrahim. Others echoed similar sentiments, noting that Yusuf’s tenure has brought visibility and development, particularly at the ward level.
There is unity of thought, if not complete consensus. But that’s not the story everywhere.
COKER AGUDA:
_Late Moves and Leadership Chess_
In Coker-Aguda, the waters are far more stirred. Hon. Rasaq Ibrahim Olalekan (RIO) was on a quiet but steady track toward a second term, until the sudden emergence of Hon. Owolabi Ogidan, who reportedly picked up his nomination form at the eleventh hour.
Why the late entry? “No smoke without fire,” one party stalwart said, pointing toward whispers of godfather backing and a quiet rebellion within the ranks.
_Rumour has it that powerful leaders within Coker-Aguda APC are attempting to tip the scales in Ogidan’s favour._ But the big question remains: will the grassroots bow to this move—or rise in rejection?
A party youth member told WordUp 213, “ _We don’t want decisions made in parlours and private homes. Let the delegates speak.”_
The battle here is no longer just about candidates. It's about whether real democracy still holds sway.
ITIRE - IKATE:
_The Imposition That May Shake the System_
_If tension has a capital, it’s in Itire-Ikate LCDA. And it has a name—_ Odunayo Olufemi Daniel.
The man, unknown to many until recently, has been packaged as the party’s leading chairmanship aspirant. But rather than joy, his emergence has triggered outrage, confusion, and a loud cry for transparency.
" _Who brought him? When did he start working for us? Is this democracy or dictatorship?"_ a visibly angry party woman demanded during our fieldwork in Lawanson.
Though supporters point to his role in the Tinubu Door-to-Door initiative and charitable efforts, the community is asking tougher questions: Why now? _Where are the party elders? And if he’s truly a grassroots mobilizer, why not prove it through open primaries?_
"They say he’s grassroots, then let him face the grassroots!" a youth leader in Adeshina Street, Wale Badmus declared.
_Even more baffling is the resounding silence from Itire-Ikate’s political heavyweights._ No official endorsements. No public debates. Just a mysterious presentation of a candidate at the final hour—a move many have tagged as nothing short of imposition.
The Verdict Ahead
From the murmurs in Mushin Road to the resistance in Ogunlana, it’s clear that this election cycle is no ordinary run. It’s a test of principle versus power. Of community voice versus concealed decisions.
As always, WordUp 213 stands at the frontline—documenting truth, amplifying voices, and holding political actors accountable.
We are not just reporting the news. We are making sure the people’s voice is heard.
Because in a democracy, you don’t just crown a leader—you earn the people’s mandate.
Written by:
Sheriph Ayoola Aroyewun
WordUp 213
_Surulere Magazine_
No comments:
Post a Comment