Leadership Transition in Agege Local Government
The leadership of Agege Local Government has undergone a significant change as the Executive Chairman, Hon. Tunde Azeez, has resigned from his position due to health-related reasons. This development has paved the way for his deputy, Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa, to formally assume the role of chairman. Obasa is the son of Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, which has added an extra layer of political interest to the transition.
The resignation was officially confirmed on Wednesday by the Leader of the Legislative Arm, Hon. Haruna Adeshina. He stated that the decision was communicated through a formal letter addressed to the council’s legislature and has since been forwarded to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for approval. Adeshina emphasized that the councillors unanimously praised Azeez’s decision, calling it an honorable move that serves the best interests of the local government.
“We commend Hon. Tunde Azeez for prioritizing his health and allowing governance to continue seamlessly,” Adeshina said in a statement. His remarks highlighted the importance of maintaining stability within the local government during such transitions.
APC chieftain Rotimi Sulaiman also acknowledged the development, noting that Azeez had been unwell for some time and made the decision to resign in order to focus on his recovery. Sulaiman expressed confidence in Obasa’s ability to lead, citing his demonstrated capacity and leadership during Azeez’s medical leave.
Despite these positive remarks, the transition has sparked political controversy. Opposition parties have accused the ruling party of orchestrating a “carefully scripted succession plan” aimed at installing the Speaker’s son as chairman. Critics argue that the timing of the resignation and the subsequent appointment of Obasa suggest a pre-arranged political strategy.
This controversy is not new. In the lead-up to the July 12, 2025, local government election, Obasa’s candidacy as the APC flag bearer faced opposition from some stakeholders. As a result, Azeez emerged as the chairman, with Obasa serving as his running mate. However, barely a month after taking office, Azeez went on medical leave, during which Obasa assumed the role of acting chairman. This situation has fueled suspicions among critics that the transition was planned well in advance.
The council has stated that it is awaiting formal communication from the state government to finalize the leadership transition. The process will likely involve further discussions and approvals before the official handover takes place.
Key Points of the Transition
- The resignation of Hon. Tunde Azeez was confirmed by Hon. Haruna Adeshina, who praised the decision as honorable.
- Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa, the deputy chairman, is set to take over the role.
- The transition has raised concerns among opposition parties, who believe it may be part of a pre-arranged political plan.
- Obasa’s previous role as a running mate to Azeez and his subsequent acting chairmanship have drawn scrutiny.
- The council is waiting for formal approval from the state government to complete the leadership change.