APC leaders endorse ex-Sanwo-Olu aide for Lagos Assembly seat

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Surulere 1 Constituency, Lagos, have declared support for Barakat Odunuga-Bakare to contest for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly in the 2027 elections. The backing came on Saturday after she completed a series of consultations across the wards in the constituency.

Odunuga-Bakare, who recently served as Special Adviser on Housing to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is seeking the party’s ticket for the Surulere 1 seat. The position is currently held by Desmond Elliot, who is aiming for another term in office.

During her visits, party stakeholders and grassroots members expressed support for her ambition, pointing to her experience in public service and her previous role as Leader of the Surulere Local Government Legislative Council. They described her as prepared for legislative duties and capable of representing the constituency.

A presidential aide on constituency matters, Khadijat Kareem, also spoke in support of her bid, noting her leadership experience and readiness to serve at a higher level. Similarly, the Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Sulaiman Yusuf, acknowledged the work of the current lawmaker but said there is a need for a new face, adding that Odunuga-Bakare had previously stepped aside for party unity.

Other party members and ward representatives gave reasons for their support, including her loyalty to the party, connection with grassroots members and her involvement in local development efforts within Surulere.

In response, Odunuga-Bakare thanked the leaders and supporters for their trust and promised to meet expectations if given the opportunity. She also called for unity within the party as it prepares for its primaries, which will determine its candidate for the 2027 election.

With the primaries approaching, the contest for the Surulere 1 seat is expected to draw attention within the party as aspirants seek to secure the ticket.