The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has formally sworn in Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, son of the Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudasiru Obasa, as the Chairman of Agege Local Government. The ceremony took place on Monday at Lagos House, Ikeja, alongside the inauguration of Toyin Adejimiwa as a Permanent Secretary.
Governor Sanwo-Olu used the occasion to advise the newly appointed chairman to govern inclusively, avoid divisive actions, and focus on unity-driven grassroots development. The governor stressed that local government is the tier of administration closest to the people, and as such, leadership at this level must be visible, responsive, and compassionate.
“Leadership at the local government level requires that you prioritize tangible benefits for residents,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Avoid policies that can deepen divisions. Your focus must be on inclusive governance and measurable outcomes that improve lives.”
Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa had been serving as the Acting Chairman of Agege Local Government prior to his formal inauguration. He officially took over following the resignation of Hon. Tunde Azeez in November 2025. Azeez stepped down barely a month after his swearing-in on July 26, 2025, citing medical reasons for his decision.
According to Rotimi Sulaiman, the media aide to the former chairman, Azeez’s decision was guided by health considerations. “Tunde Azeez has been long sick, and his decision to resign and devote attention to his health rather than being weighed down by the responsibility of office is the wise choice any sane person would make,” Sulaiman said.
The transition paved the way for Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa to assume full control of the council. During the months he served in acting capacity, Sulaiman noted, Obasa had demonstrated uncommon capacity and leadership skills, earning praise from supporters and civil servants in Agege.
The succession has not been without controversy. Opposition parties have described the transition as a “carefully scripted succession”, suggesting that the circumstances surrounding Azeez’s resignation and Obasa’s subsequent takeover indicate a prearranged political plan.
Some critics recalled that the move to make Obasa’s son the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate during the July 12 local government election faced resistance from certain stakeholders. They argue that the transition consolidates political influence within the Obasa family.
Despite these criticisms, supporters insist the succession was legitimate and necessary due to Azeez’s health realities. They framed it as a case of a “sick man choosing recovery over politics” handing over responsibility to “a young leader prepared to serve.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that discipline and performance are the core benchmarks for leadership and career advancement within Lagos State’s public service. Addressing government officials present at the ceremony, the governor noted that leadership at the grassroots level requires visibility, responsiveness, and compassionate engagement with residents.
He highlighted that local government chairpersons are expected to deliver tangible improvements in their communities, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social services. “Your leadership must be felt by the people you serve. This is where true public service begins,” he added.
At the ceremony, the governor also acknowledged retired permanent secretaries, describing them as exemplary public servants whose contributions continue to inspire the civil service in Lagos State. Their presence was a reminder of the importance of experience, mentorship, and dedication in governance.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also encouraged the new chairman to build on past achievements while implementing policies that enhance community welfare and promote harmony among residents.
Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa is a young politician who has previously served in various capacities within Agege Local Government. His appointment as chairman reflects continuity in leadership following his tenure as acting chairman. During his acting period, he handled administrative duties and initiated several community projects aimed at improving service delivery at the local level.
His supporters describe him as a visionary young leader capable of balancing the demands of political office with the expectations of the local population. Sulaiman, Obasa’s media aide, stated: “Agege is lucky to have both Tunde Azeez and Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa. The former paved the way for recovery and transition, while the latter brings fresh energy and capacity to lead.”
Residents of Agege Local Government are hopeful that the new chairman will focus on inclusive development and good governance. Community leaders have urged him to prioritize social cohesion, infrastructure development, and efficient service delivery, particularly in areas that have faced challenges over the years.
The handover also reflects broader political dynamics within Lagos State, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Leadership succession and political appointments at the local government level are often closely watched, as they can influence party cohesion, electoral outcomes, and policy implementation.