By Ebunoluwa Sessou
As the 2027 general election draws closer, political activities across Lagos State are gaining momentum, with aspirants and incumbents quietly but steadily positioning themselves for what promises to be intense contests.
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In the Lagos State House of Assembly, the build-up reflects a familiar pattern: strategic alignments, grassroots mobilisations, and, increasingly, fierce intra-party rivalries. While multiple political parties are preparing for the polls, the real battles appear to be unfolding within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which currently dominates the Assembly. The Labour Party holds just one seat, representing Amuwo Odofin Constituency1.
Investigations by Vanguard reveal that many lawmakers across the state are facing stiff competition not from opposition parties, but from fellow APC members turning what might have been straightforward re-election bids into high-stakes political showdowns.
Epe: A hotbed of contestation
Nowhere is this internal rivalry more evident than in Epe Constituency I, where long-serving lawmaker, Abiodun Tobun is facing a formidable challenge from former Epe Local Government Chairman, Segun Agbaje.
Agbaje, known for his grassroots appeal and advocacy for community welfare and road safety, has built a reputation as a people-oriented politician. His emergence has resonated with a section of constituents calling for generational change and fresh ideas.
Local sentiments suggest growing fatigue with long-term representation, as some constituents openly canvass for “new innovation” and a departure from what they describe as “inactive leadership.”
In Epe Constituency II, a similar contest is brewing as incumbent, Ogunkelu, popularly known as Sketel, prepares to face Prince Adeyemi Olumuyiwa Ogunlari, also known as “Gentle Giant,” in what observers describe as a battle of influence and local networks.
Ajeromi-Ifelodun: Experience meets ambition
In Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency I, the political terrain is shaping into a three-way contest. Incumbent, Lukmon Olumoh is expected to face former council chairman, Ajifat, whose deep roots in Lagos politics could prove decisive.
Adding another layer to the contest is the potential influence of former lawmaker and ex-Deputy Speaker, Kolawole Taiwo (HKT), a seasoned politician with a history of electoral success in the constituency.
Agege and Lagos Island: Heavyweights collide
The Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, is not insulated from the growing wave of challenges. In Agege Constituency I, he is expected to face opposition from Agbelebu, signaling that even high-ranking officials are not immune to internal party contests.
On Lagos Island Constituency I, first-term lawmaker, Lara Oyekan-Olumegbon is also bracing for competition from multiple aspirants, including Prince Moshood Olawale Eletu, highlighting the pressure on new entrants to consolidate their hold on power.
Surulere: A test of popularity
In Surulere Constituency I, Nollywood actor-turned-lawmaker, Desmond Elliot appears to be heading into a tough re-election battle. Discontent among some constituents has opened the field for challengers, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, and Rasaq Ibrahim Olamilekan.
Observers note that Elliot’s performance and grassroots connection will likely determine his political fate in what is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched races.
Surulere Constituency II presents another competitive field, with Barrister Damilola Ayinde Marshal set to challenge incumbent, Mosunmola Sangodara.
Emerging youth influence and grassroots mobilisation
In Orile-Agege Constituency II, youth-backed aspirant, Azeez Oladapo Yusuf, popularly known as Nino, is gaining traction as he prepares to challenge incumbent, Abdulkareem. His candidacy reflects a broader trend of youth engagement in Lagos politics.
Similarly, in Ibeju-Lekki Constituency II, Comrade Abiodun Yusuf (M.A.Y Jankalawi) is positioning himself against incumbent, Oladele Ajayi, whose tenure has focused on infrastructure and empowerment projects.
Oshodi-Isolo and Apapa: Subtle power plays
In Oshodi/Isolo Constituency I, Stephen Ogundipe remains a strong figure, though internal disagreements within local political structures may pose challenges. Potential contenders, including Adebanji Atewogboye (Skibanj) and Mayowa Alakija, are reportedly weighing their chances.
In Apapa Constituency I, Deputy Speaker, Mojisola Meranda is expected to face Dr. Mike Oladunjoye Egbayelo, marking another significant contest involving a ranking lawmaker.
Quiet zones and open fields
Not all constituencies are witnessing turbulence. Lawmakers in Eti-Osa Constituencies I and II—Gbolahan Yishawu and Noheem Adams appear to be enjoying relative calm, with no major challengers identified so far.
Similarly, Ladi Ajomale in Oshodi/Isolo Constituency II and Orekoya in Somolu Constituency I are currently perceived to have smoother paths toward re-election.
The bigger picture
The unfolding scenario in Lagos underscores a shifting political dynamic where incumbency is no longer a guarantee of return tickets. Instead, performance, grassroots connection, and internal party acceptance are becoming decisive factors.
Analysts say APC’s dominance in Lagos may ironically be fueling these internal contests, as aspirants view party primaries not the general election as the real battleground.
As 2027 approaches, the intensity of these intra-party rivalries is expected to rise, reshaping political alliances and redefining power structures within the Lagos State House of Assembly.
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