Former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in South Africa, Mr Bola Babarinde, has cautioned the party against taking voters for granted in the selection of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s successor in 2027.
Babarinde, the General Secretary, Renewed Hope Global, in a statement on Thursday in Lagos, said that the outcome of the 2023 presidential election in the state had shown that no party was invincible.
According to him, APC must remain vigilant, consistent, and connected to the people while also making the succession process credible.
“The political terrain in Lagos requires renewal. The shocking defeat of APC by the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election in Lagos was a reminder that no party is invincible.
“Political complacency can easily lead to electoral setbacks if not addressed.
“To reawaken political vitality, APC in Lagos State must make the selection of candidates more transparent, competitive, and inclusive.
“Party members need to feel a true sense of belonging, which can be achieved through competitive primaries that include debates, manifesto nights, and open engagement with the electorate.
“Accessibility to nomination forms should also be broadened, as many leaders may lack the financial resources to secure them under the current system.
“By creating a fairer and more transparent process, APC can ensure that the best candidates emerge to lead,” Babarinde said.
The APC chieftain noted that the real development of Lagos State began with late Alhaji Lateef Jakande as the first executive governor, who’s name reflected his loyalty to and belief in the vision of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the first Premier of the Western Region.
He, however, said that with the return to democracy in 1999, Lagos was fortunate to have President Bola Tinubu as its governor then.
Speaking on the gains of good governance in the state, Babarinde, said that Tinubu’s administration also laid a solid foundation and provided a sustainable development template for successive governments to follow.
“This template has largely been maintained to date, despite brief political frictions during the Ambode administration. As a result, Lagos has enjoyed consistency in infrastructural development, education, health, and sports.
“As the 2027 elections approaches, APC must not take the issue of Sanwo-Olu’s successor for granted.
“While Tinubu has demonstrated seriousness in governance and is already laying the foundation for meaningful progress within two years of his administration, people still need to be convinced that their lives will truly improve.
“Opposition forces, often driven by expired politicians seeking to hijack the nation’s progress, are working to create misleading impressions.
“The APC must remain vigilant, consistent, and connected to the people. Lagos deserves candidates in 2027 who are not only formidable but also capable of winning decisively.
“The state must not produce liabilities that could weaken the President’s efforts or undermine the party’s standing,” Babarinde said.
Freedomonline reports that Sanwo-Olu’s second term will end on May 29, 2027.
