Oluwagbenga Abiola, vice-chairman of Agege LGA, has stepped down for Abdulganiyu Obasa, son of Mudashiru Obasa, speaker of the Lagos house of assembly.
Abiola was a leading chairmanship aspirant ahead of the Lagos council election slated for July 12.
In an interview with NAN on Wednesday, Abiola expressed satisfaction with the decision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to settle for Abdulganiyu as its flagbearer in Agege.
“Let me make it clear — I will never go against my leader, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa,” Abiola said.
“This is the man who made me. He appointed me special assistant on media when he became speaker in 2015.
“In 2016, I was appointed sole administrator of Agege LGA, thanks to his recommendation to the governor. That appointment made me the youngest council boss in Lagos state at the time.
“In 2017, I became secretary to the local government, and in 2021, vice chairman — all through the party’s and speaker’s support.
“So, why would I oppose a man who built me politically and helped me grow in experience and influence?”
He dismissed claims of being pressured to withdraw from the chairmanship race, reiterating his commitment to the party and his belief in future opportunities.
“Yes, I aspired. Every vice chairman dreams of becoming chairman but the party has spoken, and I fully agree,” he said.
He noted that Agege stakeholders had urged Obasa to allow his son to contest the council chairmanship as a reward for the speaker’s years of humanitarian service and political impact in the area.
Abiola pledged his total support for Obasa’s leadership and the party’s direction.
“I trust my leader. He knows what’s best and can recommend me for even greater responsibilities when the time is right,” he added.
Abiola also instructed members of his Obasa Youth Alliance (OYA) to fully support the party’s chosen candidate.
