By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
As the 2025 local government elections draw closer in Lagos State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has put forward a formidable lineup of female candidates vying for chairmanship positions across various councils. Ten strong and accomplished women have emerged as flagbearers of the ruling party, signaling a renewed commitment to gender inclusion and grassroots development.
Among the candidates are Mrs. Olayemi Animasahun (Epe Council), Motunrayo Alogba (Ijede), Samiat Bada (Ikosi-Ketu), Muibat Rufai (Ojo), and Yemi Akindele Adunni (Mosan-Okunola). Others include Idowu Senanjo (Apapa), Tola Oyedele-Abubakar (Agboyi-Ketu), Bukola Omope (Bariga), Aminat Alabi (Iru/Victoria Island), and Omoba Adeola Alimot Adetoro (Eti-Osa).
These women come from diverse backgrounds, with experience in governance, community service, party administration, and public engagement. Their emergence is not only a reflection of their individual capacities but also an indicator of the APC’s strategy to strengthen its grassroots appeal by promoting inclusivity.
Political observers see this development as a significant shift in a system traditionally dominated by male leadership at the local level. For many, this lineup represents a generational and gender rebalance in Lagos politics.
While some may question whether these women were chosen solely based on political considerations or as part of internal zoning arrangements, their records suggest a readiness to deliver. For instance, Samiat Bada, a former Vice Chairman and Acting Chairman of Ikosi-Ketu LCDA, is recognized for her administrative experience. Similarly, Motunrayo Alogba has built a reputation for youth mobilization and community initiatives in Ijede.
Civil society groups have welcomed the development, urging voters to assess candidates not by gender but by competence, vision, and past performance. “What matters most is the ability to serve and lead with integrity. It’s encouraging to see more women stepping up,” said Mrs. Kehinde Salawu, a Lagos-based gender rights advocate.
The coming months will offer these candidates opportunities to engage voters, present their manifestos, and demonstrate their commitment to people-oriented leadership. Regardless of electoral outcomes, their participation alone helps to broaden the political space and inspire more women to take active roles in governance.
As Lagos prepares for another critical election cycle, the presence of these ten women on the APC’s platform adds both substance and diversity to the conversation on the future of local government administration in the state.
