Supporters and residents across Agege Constituency I on Monday celebrated the APC declaration of Mr Gbenga Abiola, popularly called Agbelebu, as winner of the party’s House of Assembly primary election in the constituency.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday declared Abiola, a former Vice Chairman of Agege Local Government, candidate of the party for Agege Constituency I, following Wednesday’s House of Assembly primary election in the constitiency.
The release put to rest agitations and disputes that erupted the constitiency after Abiola’s rival, Alhaji Ganiyu Egunjobi, backed by the Speaker of the Lagos Assembly, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, was earlier declared the winner ahead of the party.
Residents, party faithful, women and youths trooped into various streets in jubilation following the development.
The atmosphere across parts of the constituency was filled with excitement, solidarity and celebrations as supporters hailed the outcome of the primaries.
Many residents described the declaration as victory for grassroots politics, inclusive leadership and people-oriented representation within the constituency.
Supporters of the Agbelebu Solidarity Forum said the outcome reflected years of grassroots mobilisation, accessibility and humanitarian contributions associated with the movement.
According to the Director General of the forum, Dr Jamiu Ademosu, the overwhelming turnout witnessed across several wards reflected the true mood and decision of party members during the exercise.
Ademosu maintained that available video evidences from several polling areas supported the credibility of the outcome announced after the primaries.
He described the development as recognition of years of youth empowerment, political inclusion and consistent community engagement across Agege.
Speaking after the declaration, Abiola appreciated supporters, residents and party faithful for their commitment and peaceful conduct throughout the exercise.
“This movement has always been about the people, service, grassroots development and giving hope to the younger generation.
“I remain grateful for the overwhelming support and confidence reposed in us,” Abiola said.
He also expressed appreciation to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly for his contributions to the development of Agege over the years.
According to him, the Speaker’s leadership and political influence contributed significantly to infrastructural development, political stability and grassroots empowerment within the constituency.
“I remain sincerely grateful to Rt. Hon. Speaker for setting the pace for true development in Agege.
“That is something that cannot be denied by anyone who genuinely understands the constituency’s transformation over the years,” he stated.
Abiola added that political aspirations and differences should never erase respect, gratitude and acknowledgment of contributions made by leaders toward societal development.
“Despite political differences or aspirations, respect, gratitude and acknowledgment of past contributions must always remain part of responsible leadership and political maturity,” he said.
The APC candidate also extended an olive branch to party leaders and stakeholders, urging unity and reconciliation ahead of the general election in February.
According to him, the task ahead requires cooperation, understanding and collective commitment to strengthen the APC within Agege Constituency I.
He appealed to party leaders, stakeholders and supporters across divides to work together in the overall interest of the party and residents of the constituency.
“I sincerely call on the leadership of our great party, respected stakeholders and committed members to join hands together ahead of the election.
“At this critical moment, unity, peace and collective responsibility remain very important,” he said.
Abiola also thanked members of the Agbelebu Solidarity Forum, women, youths, elders and supporters who stood by the movement throughout the process.
“I deeply appreciate everyone for the support, encouragement, sacrifices and belief in this vision.
“The love shown by the people remains overwhelming and I will never take it for granted,” he added.
Supporters across the constituency expressed optimism that the movement would strengthen youth participation, community development and inclusive leadership within Agege and beyond.
