Obanikoro joins Lagos Island Reps race
Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Parastatal Monitoring, Hon Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro, has formally entered the race for the House of Representatives seat for Lagos Island Federal Constituency after
Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Parastatal Monitoring, Hon Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro, has formally entered the race for the House of Representatives seat for Lagos Island Federal Constituency after purchasing the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest form.
The move, confirmed by close associates of the former federal lawmaker, is already stirring political activity within Lagos political circles, with observers describing it as a significant development in one of the state’s most competitive constituencies.
Obanikoro’s acquisition of the form signals his readiness to contest for a seat in the Green Chamber and sets the stage for what analysts say could become one of the most closely watched intra-party contests in Lagos Island Constituency in recent years.
The aspirant, son of former Minister of State for Defence and two-time House of Representatives member, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, is seeking to build on a family legacy that has long been associated with Lagos politics.
However, associates insist his ambition is driven by his personal experience and vision rather than pedigree alone.
Since his appointment by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as Special Adviser on Parastatal Monitoring, Obanikoro has overseen the performance and accountability of state agencies and parastatals.
Sources within the Lagos State Government House said he earned recognition for a transparency-driven approach and efforts aimed at ensuring government institutions deliver measurable value to residents.
Political analysts say his experience in executive governance and institutional oversight could offer an advantage, particularly in translating legislative frameworks into practical outcomes.
The Lagos Island Federal Constituency—covering economically significant areas such as Victoria Island, Lekki, Ajah, and Atlantic coastline communities—is regarded as one of the most strategic in the country. With its mix of business leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, youth population, and international organisations, the constituency is seen as a critical voice in national economic discourse.
Winning the APC ticket for the constituency is widely considered a major hurdle, as the party primaries are expected to feature several high-profile aspirants competing in a state that remains a stronghold of the ruling party.
The Expression of Interest form marks the first stage in the APC’s candidate selection process. Aspirants are expected to proceed with the purchase of nomination forms, after which screening and party primaries will determine the eventual flag bearer.
Following this development, Obanikoro is expected to begin consultations and grassroots mobilisation across the constituency, engaging party structures, community leaders, market associations, youth groups, and professional bodies.
Reactions to his declaration have begun to emerge from within the APC and the broader political space.
Some party chieftains described his entry as a welcome development, pointing to his administrative record and political background.
At the grassroots level, party officials in Lagos Island Constituency expressed optimism that his participation would bring renewed energy to the race.
A community leader in the Lekki axis, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “What we want is someone who knows how government works from the inside, who can hold ministries accountable and fight for our constituency's infrastructure and development in Abuja. Obanikoro fits that profile.”
Youth groups within the constituency have also reacted positively, expressing hope that his candidacy could boost participation among young voters who form a significant portion of the electorate.
For the Obanikoro family, the bid represents a continuation of a longstanding involvement in public service. However, associates maintain that the campaign reflects Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro’s individual ambition to address the needs of the constituency and contribute to national legislative work.
As the APC’s internal processes progress and preparations for the next general election gather momentum, Obanikoro’s entry has added a new dimension to the Lagos Island House of Representatives race, with political observers noting that the contest is likely to intensify in the coming months.
