The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Chairman, Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC), Cornelius Ojelabi; and Chairman, Governor Advisory Council (GAC), Tajudeen Olusi, have urged the party’s candidates for the 2025 local government elections to be people oriented and progressive like the sage Obafemi Awolowo if elected to office on July 12.

This was disclosed on Tuesday at the party’s official presentation of candidates for the 2025 local government elections and the flag-off of the campaign, held at the state’s party secretariat in Lagos.

Specifically, Ojelabi stated that a second term in office isn’t certain for any underperformed council chairman while stressing the importance of the office to the people.

According to him, the candidate’s administration would be closely monitored by the party if elected into office, saying it wouldn’t be business as usual.

He, however, cautioned the candidates not to maltreat their vice when they get into office, saying they were not a spare tire but a co-pilot.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, stated that the event symbolises the beginning of the journey that requires hard work, commitment and unalloyed dedication to service.

“As we raise the flags today, we are more than happy, but let us remember the values and principles that bind us together for a better future. APC is a party known for progressive movements, and we are not only focused on winning the election but also on bringing about quality and positive change in the lives of the people.

“We must continue in the legacy of President Bola Tinubu. We must let Nigerians know that the APC is here to serve the people, and we must not disappoint them by delivering our promises to solve the problem. We must emulate the sage Obafemi Awolowo, who was known for good works.”

In his remarks, Olusi emphasised the importance of local government, stating that it is closest to the people and must be taken seriously.

“It’s so sad that today there are lots of hungry people in politics, and that is why the desperation is high. However, I want you to take seriously the work that you will be elected to do and serve the people.

“We urge the candidates to work with those who lost the primaries when they eventually win the election.”

He advised them to promote people’s welfare rather than personal aggrandisement, saying that the office is not meant to enrich them.

“It is a thing of joy that no one who lost at the primary has taken the party to court to challenge the outcome. For those who are candidates and received their flags today, it is incumbent upon you to help us and the party by ensuring that all those who made a sacrifice are carried along. They made a sacrifice by not contesting your victory in court. Pick a supervisor from them; among other roles, there are lots of things you can do with and for them,” he said.

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, urged aggrieved aspirants not to work against the party.

“If you have faith in the party, then whatever the party decides is binding. It’s not about having enemies and trying to frustrate the system. The party is supreme, and its decision must be supported. We must support our party.

“Let’s support the candidates. The next four years are around the corner, and it might be your turn. But if you work against the party, it might affect you later.”