The political leadership and traditional institution in Ikorodu Division have rallied behind the APC Governorship Candidate and incoming Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, with Hon. Babajimi Benson pledging that the division will deliver 250,000 votes in support of his candidacy and the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

The commitment was made during a stakeholders’ engagement that brought together prominent APC leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and political stakeholders across Ikorodu Division, including a visit to Oba Abdulkabir Adewale Shotobi, Ayangburen of Ikorodu, and other traditional leaders across the division.

Among the traditional rulers were Oba Adefarasin Saheed Hassan Ajanaku II, Alajede of Ijede Kingdom; Oba Olukayode David Raji, Eweye of Isiu; Oba Richard Abayomi Ogunsanya, Olubeshe of Ibeshe; Oba Bashir Aremu Sotonwa, Sekumade of Ipakodo; and Oba Ahmed Olakunle Ogunnaike Ogunderu, Alagura of Agura Kingdom.

Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu appreciated the traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials and people of Ikorodu for their support and contributions to his administration. He described Ikorodu as a significant division that does not carry last, while highlighting the economic and infrastructural developments taking place across Lagos and Nigeria.

Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, APC Governorship Candidate and incoming Governor of Lagos State, outlined his vision for a more productive and inclusive Lagos, with emphasis on employment creation, support for SMEs, data-driven governance and strategic planning. He disclosed a target of creating 18,000 new jobs while identifying infrastructure, transportation, water supply, healthcare, housing and education as key priorities for Ikorodu.

Hamzat also pledged to strengthen the Ikorodu General Hospital and other divisional hospitals, including the provision of residential accommodation for doctors, nurses and other medical personnel. He further highlighted plans for improved transportation through an integrated system involving rail, buses, waterways and electric ferries.

On industrial development, he stressed the importance of reliable electricity for industrial and commercial areas, citing Odogunyan as an area where dedicated power supply could support businesses, attract investment and create employment.

Hon. Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, highlighted the division’s longstanding support for the progressive political family and its strong performance for the APC. He appealed for fairness and equity for Ikorodu in the distribution of developmental opportunities and assured the incoming administration of the division’s commitment to delivering 250,000 votes, while urging the government to reciprocate with tangible dividends of democracy.

Asiwaju Kaoli Olusanya called for unity and stronger political mobilisation among APC stakeholders in Ikorodu Division, urging party leaders and members to work collectively towards strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, GAC Member, Lagos, expressed confidence in Hamzat’s experience, competence and knowledge of Lagos affairs, describing him as capable of sustaining the progress recorded by successive administrations. He also spoke on the Federal Government’s reforms, including subsidy removal and tax reforms, noting that while such policies may bring short-term challenges, their objectives and long-term benefits should be properly communicated to the people.

APC Lagos State Chairman, Mr. Cornelius Ojelabi, acknowledged the contributions of party leaders, traditional rulers, political and community stakeholders, calling for greater unity, grassroots mobilisation and active participation ahead of the 2027 elections. He urged polling-unit coordinators to strengthen the party’s structure at the grassroots.

Chairman of the Council of Baales, Chief Akeju, called for sustained cooperation between traditional institutions and government, particularly in addressing developmental needs across the division, while the Secretary of the Council of Baales, Chief Arowodu, stressed the importance of stronger collaboration among traditional rulers, local governments and other levels of government.

The Iyalode of Ikorodu also called for unity, cooperation and collective responsibility towards the development of the division and the advancement of its political interests.

Odofin Tajudeen Onasanya emphasised the need for leaders to prioritise the broader interests of the people above personal considerations. He also highlighted the importance of industrial development and reliable electricity in driving economic growth.

During a panel session at Ikorodu 106.1 FM, Hamzat further discussed his motivation for public service, his connection to Ikorodu and Lagos, ongoing and proposed projects in the division, transportation, water supply, taxation, institutional development and efficient public services.

He reiterated the need for stronger institutions and greater citizen participation, stressing the principle of “Think globally, but act locally” in addressing the needs of communities.

The engagement ended with renewed calls for unity among political and traditional stakeholders, sustained grassroots mobilisation and collective support for continuity and development under the incoming administration.

Hon. Rasaq Ajala, Deputy Director-General of the Campaign, delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the traditional rulers, political leaders, stakeholders and other attendees for their participation and support.