BY SUNDAY AKINTOYE
A prominent Lagos-based All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and entrepreneur, Adekunle Adebanjo, popularly known as Froggie, has officially declared his intention to run for the chairmanship of Lagos Mainland Local Government in the upcoming Lagos State Council elections.
Speaking with our correspondent, Adebanjo, who has spent years in grassroots politics within the Lagos Mainland community, said his decision to contest is driven by a desire to serve his people wholeheartedly and address their pressing needs.
“Mainland, Ebute-Metta in particular, has been my home for as long as I can remember. I grew up here, and over the years, I have gained a deep understanding of the challenges my people face. After years of contributing to Lagos politics, I believe that this is the right time to give back to my community in a bigger way,” he said.
Known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in sports, Adebanjo praised the achievements of the current Council Chairperson, Hon. Rashidat Essien and pledged to build on her successes.
“Good governance is about continuity. If elected, I will sustain the progress made by my predecessor, Hon. Rashidat Essien while rolling out innovative programmes that will impact the lives of our people in a more meaningful way.
“I have a clear vision and a robust plan, but I will unveil my full agenda when the campaign officially begins,” he explained.
When asked what sets him apart from other APC aspirants, Adebanjo emphasized his deep connection to the grassroots.
“I have spent years engaging with the people, and my popularity spans across youths, women and the elderly. Recently, I sponsored a football tournament that brought together participants from all the nine wards in Lagos Mainland. The enthusiasm and support I saw confirmed that I am deeply rooted in this community and understand its heartbeat,” he said.
Adebanjo’s sterling track record of performance in the APC hierarchy further stands him head and heels above his fellow aspirants.
He added “I have served in the Party hierarchy more than any other aspirant. The records are there to show. As a member of the Screening Committee for Enugu State House of Assembly, Member of Contact and Mobilization, National Campaign Council for Osun State Gubernatorial Election, Member of Ondo State Gubernatorial Primary Election, Member of Election Monitoring Committee for Presidential Election, 2023, Member of Congress Committee for Enugu State, Member of Contact and Mobilization, National Campaign Council for Bayelsa State, Member of National Campaign Council for Ekiti State Governorship Election, Member of Contact and Mobilization, Independent Campaign Council for Lagos State Governorship Election 2023, make it near impossible to fault my experience and pedigree in Party politics.”
Adebanjo’s focus, commitment , dedication and loyalty to his people and to the cause is further highlighted in the leadership role he played as the Lagos Mainland Coordinator for Babajide Olushola Sanwoolu Campaign Organization in 2019.
Adebanjo who is not deterred by the death of his wife went ahead to organise the Lagos Mainland Mega Rally held a few days after her demise, affirming his selfless leadership.
Adebanjo’s declaration thus signals his readiness to contest for the Lagos Mainland chairmanship and his commitment to fostering unity, progress, and development for the benefit of all constituents of Lagos Mainland Local Government.
As the election season heats up, Adebanjo’s grassroots appeal, his vision and deep understanding of the needs of the Lagos Mainland community will, no doubt, make him the candidate to beat.