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By Lukman Olabiyi
Stakeholders across Lagos Mainland Federal Constituency have thrown their weight behind Honourable Prince Abdul Akeem Animashaun as the consensus candidate for the House of Representatives, while endorsing the zoning of the seat to Ebute Metta West in what they described as a decisive move to correct longstanding political imbalance.
Leaders and representatives from Ebute Metta West, Ebute Metta East, and Yaba reached the resolution at a joint press conference, where they called for equity, inclusiveness, and unity ahead of forthcoming elections.
The stakeholders said their endorsement of Animashaun followed extensive consultations across the constituency, stressing that his emergence reflects a collective commitment to fairness and sustainable political stability.
They argued that Ebute Metta West has suffered decades of marginalisation since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, noting that the area has consistently been excluded from key elective and appointive positions.
According to them, the imbalance has led to growing dissatisfaction and could weaken political cohesion if not urgently addressed.
“Zoning the House of Representatives seat to Ebute Metta West is a necessary step to restore balance and strengthen democratic inclusion,” the stakeholders said in a joint statement.
They added that despite its significant contributions to electoral victories, particularly for the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ebute Metta West has not received commensurate political recognition, with most positions concentrated in Yaba and Ebute Metta East.
In a show of cross-community solidarity, stakeholders from Ebute Metta East and Yaba also backed the zoning arrangement, describing it as a just and equitable decision.
Animashaun was widely praised at the event as a unifying figure with broad grassroots appeal. The stakeholders said he enjoys support from youths, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community groups across the constituency.
Speaking on behalf of the Makoko waterfront community, Dosugan Caleb highlighted the challenges residents have faced over a disputed waterfront reclamation project since 2020, lamenting what he described as official neglect despite ongoing legal action.
He expressed optimism that Animashaun’s candidacy would bring renewed attention to the community’s plight and urged him to prioritise their concerns if elected.
Also speaking, a Yaba community leader, Mrs. Bolingo, decried what she termed persistent marginalisation in the constituency and called for accountable leadership, noting that past representatives had fallen short of expectations.
From Ebute Metta West, Akamu Ganiu commended Animashaun’s integrity and long-standing commitment to grassroots development, describing him as capable of delivering effective representation.
Other stakeholders, including Mrs. Helen Ilegbodu and Hon. Samson Akanni Sambakiu, cited the aspirant’s professional background as a lawyer and his track record of service as reasons for their support.
The meeting ended with a strong appeal to party leaders and relevant authorities to respect the zoning demand and uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and inclusiveness.
The stakeholders emphasised that unity among Ebute Metta West, Ebute Metta East, and Yaba remains critical to achieving equitable representation and fostering sustainable development across Lagos Mainland.
