Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has cautioned All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship and councillorship candidates against complacency ahead of the 12 July Local Government Elections, calling for vigorous mobilisation and direct community engagement.
Addressing a high-level stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday at the State House in Marina, the governor presented the APC flags to candidates and conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation to the party’s grassroots structure. He encouraged the candidates to validate the APC’s influence across the state through active campaigning.
“Every election is local. Don’t assume anything. Go out, engage the people, connect with them, and let them know who they are voting for,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He stressed the importance of unity within the party, referencing internal tensions following the primaries, and reminded attendees that the party’s decisions must be upheld.
“We have resolved to move forward together. The party’s choice is final. Our house must remain united. We are ready, and we are one,” he added.
Sanwo-Olu warned against factionalism and neglecting any group or interest within the party, urging candidates to consolidate support across all segments.
Chairman of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Prince Tajudeen Olusi, advised candidates to focus on integrity over personal gain. “Don’t chase your pockets, build a good name. In just one year, you can leave a lasting impact. Serve the people well and promote the APC at the grassroots.”
Also speaking at the event, Lagos APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, called for discipline among candidates, insisting they must live within their constituencies or face party consequences.
“A council chairman plays a central role in bringing governance closer to the people. From education and health to infrastructure and youth development, you must live where you serve,” Ojelabi said.
Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mrs Lasbat Meranda, and First Lady, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, called on women across the state to lead mobilisation efforts.
Dr Sanwo-Olu appealed to party supporters, saying, “Let’s not bring shame to the APC. We must use our votes to protect our interests and strengthen our communities.”
Chairman of the APC LG Campaign Council, Alhaji Babatunde Balogun, through his secretary Alhaji Rasak Ajala, instructed candidates to reconcile with aggrieved aspirants to ensure a united front heading into the polls.
The parley drew attendance from senior APC figures including GAC members, state and federal legislators, council leaders, market representatives, religious and ethnic leaders, transport union executives, and party loyalists.
With the 12 July elections approaching, the APC is looking to retain its long-standing dominance over the state’s 57 local government areas.
