By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
As July 12, 2025, draws near, Eti-Osa Local Government stands at a defining moment in its democratic journey. Two chairmanship candidates — Hon. Princess Omoba Adeola Alimot Adetoro of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Kazeem Ganiyu Olarenwaju, popularly known as Onipako of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) — have emerged as the top contenders in what is already being described as one of the most crucial grassroots elections in Lagos State.
Yet, while the political contest is stiff, many observers believe that the odds may favour the APC’s Princess Omoba Adeola Adetoro, thanks to the strong foundation laid by the outgoing chairman, Hon. Saheed Adesegun Bankole.
Princess Adeola is not coming in as a stranger to governance. She is a seasoned public servant, a woman of royal lineage with both administrative experience and community focus. Her candidacy is widely seen as a bridge between tested leadership and a future driven by stability and strategic development. Analysts say she represents continuity of excellence, especially as Eti-Osa has witnessed notable infrastructural and social development under Bankole’s tenure — achievements which Adeola vows to consolidate and expand upon.
From road rehabilitation to youth empowerment and improved health services, Bankole’s administration has delivered real impact. Princess Adeola, having served within the current political structure, is expected to build on these gains. Her track record of accessibility, discipline, and people-oriented leadership has made her a respected figure within both the APC and across local community networks.
In her words during a recent stakeholders’ meeting, “Good governance must not be interrupted. What we’ve achieved in Eti-Osa is not by accident, and I am prepared to take it to the next level.”
Meanwhile, Kazeem Ganiyu Olarenwaju — known on the streets as Onipako — brings a different kind of fire to the race. A grassroots mobilizer with a deep presence among youths and market women, Onipako is positioning himself as the alternative voice. His rise has been fueled by his consistent community engagements and populist messaging that appeals to the underrepresented and the underserved.
However, political analysts warn that popularity must be backed by policy. While Onipako’s campaign is vibrant, questions remain about his experience in public administration and his capacity to manage a dynamic local government like Eti-Osa — home to both elite urban districts and densely populated neighborhoods.
That’s where Princess Adeola appears to hold the upper hand — not just in structure and support, but in readiness. Her deep ties within the APC, her understanding of policy implementation, and her access to government frameworks put her in a better position to hit the ground running.
Still, in politics, surprises are not uncommon. If Onipako can sustain his street-level momentum and present a convincing roadmap, he may galvanize a protest vote, especially among youths calling for generational shift.
But governance is not just about energy; it’s about effectiveness. The question before Eti-Osa residents is simple: will they continue with a legacy of performance through Princess Adeola, or experiment with a new voice in Onipako?
Eti-Osa is watching. Lagos is watching. And the electorate will decide.
