Lawal steps down for Eshinlokun
A senatorial aspirant in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos Central District, Olumide Kola-Lawal, has stepped down for Senator Wasiu Eshilokun Sanni. He told reporters in Lagos that the
A senatorial aspirant in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos Central District, Olumide Kola-Lawal, has stepped down for Senator Wasiu Eshilokun Sanni.
He told reporters in Lagos that the decision was in line with the consensus option adopted by the party, adding that he was not under pressure to step down.
He said his decision was not a retreat from service, but a reaffirmation of his commitment to unity, discipline and the greater good of the party.
Kola-Lawal said: “In February 2025, what began as a quiet moment of reflection gradually grew into a resolute sense of purpose. Through prayer, counsel and honest conversations with trusted voices, an idea took
shape – an idea not driven by personal ambition, but by a sincere desire to serve.
“That conviction led me to step forward not alone, but alongside many who believe in a shared future built on responsibility, inclusion and progress.
“Over the past year, that commitment has been tested and strengthened through action. I made 12 visits to Nigeria from the United States, not for ceremony, but for connection. Each journey was an opportunity to listen, to learn and to engage meaningfully with the people we seek to serve.
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“Together, we have walked this path. We engaged across all 13 local governments and local council development areas within Lagos Central Senatorial District. We connected directly with over 90 electoral wards. We consulted widely – across leadership circles, communities and grassroots stakeholders. And importantly, we held town hall meetings, where we listened – truly listened – to the everyday concerns, hopes and aspirations of our people.
“More importantly, we had a well-structured plan around innovation and entrepreneurship,
human development and connecting the grassroots to global opportunities.
“This process has been deeply educative. It has reinforced a simple but powerful truth: leadership is not about speaking the loudest, but about listening the most.
“Today, however, I stand before you guided by another principle – one that is essential to democracy
and party unity.
“In line with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the consensus framework adopted by our great
party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), I have made the decision to suspend my campaign forthwith.
“This decision is not a retreat from service. Rather, it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to unity,
discipline, and the greater good of the party and the nation.
“I fully align with the party’s position and lend my support to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In that spirit, I also support the return of Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun to the Senate in 2027.”
Urging his supporters, partners and goodwill ambassadors to rekindle their belief in the democratic process, he said: “The strength of our movement has never been about one individual; it has always been about our shared values and collective vision.”
Kola-Lawal added: “I urge you all to stand firm, remain engaged and support the direction of our party.
Let me reassure you: this is not the end of the journey. It is a step within a larger path of service. The relationships we have built, the insights we have gathered, and the trust we have earned will
continue to guide our contributions to the society.
We move forward – together – with hope, unity and unwavering commitment.”
