The Lagos State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Cornelius Ojelabi, has emphasised the importance of the party’s candidates for the 2025 local government elections residing in their constituencies if elected on July 12, 2025.

Speaking on Tuesday at a meeting with APC stakeholders alongside Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ojelabi stressed that this requirement would be strictly enforced.

According to Cornelius Ojelabi, any council chairman found residing outside their local government area will face sanctions.

He stressed that serving the people requires a deep understanding of their needs, which can only be achieved by being physically present and accessible within the constituency.

Ojelabi emphasised the crucial role of council chairmen in piloting the affairs of their local governments and contributing to the development of the state in areas such as education, health, and agriculture.

The APC chairman emphasised that the candidates, if elected, must align with the governor’s plans to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the people.

He noted that the state had garnered numerous accolades and called on them to do more, particularly in addressing food insecurity.

Ojelabi revealed that there were lands available in Ikorodu, Badagry, and other areas that could be utilised to solve food insecurity challenges in the state.

He warned that the performance of the candidates, once elected, would be closely monitored and that it would not be business as usual.