APC Re-Elects Ojelabi as Lagos State Chairman at Consensus Congress

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has returned Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi for a second term as state chairman following a consensus arrangement at the party’s state congress.

The congress, held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, drew no fewer than 2,000 delegates from across the state. The exercise concluded with the affirmation of a consensus list of State Executive Committee members through voice vote.

Consensus Leadership

Ojelabi’s re-election was announced by the Chairman of the State Congress Committee, Mrs. Stella Okotete, who described Lagos as the “heartbeat of progressive politics” and the proud home of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Other key party officials re-elected through the consensus process include:

• Moshood Mayegun – Deputy Chairman

• Dr. Adeola Jokomba – Secretary

• Mogaji Oluseye Oladejo – Publicity Secretary

• Mrs. Folashade Bakare – Legal Adviser

• Mr. Abiodun Ayigbe – Treasurer

• Mr. Banjo Adedoyin-Wasiu – Financial Secretary

• Mr. Ayodele Adewale – Organising Secretary

• Mr. Seriki Muritala – Youth Leader

Several assistant officers and senatorial leaders were also ratified as part of the newly constituted State Executive Committee.

Emphasis on Party Unity

In her address, Okotete stressed that the congress was conducted in line with Article 20 of the party’s constitution and adhered strictly to established guidelines.

“This congress is not a contest of enemies. It is a contest of progressive family members united by ideology,” she stated, urging aspirants and delegates to demonstrate sportsmanship and respect for due process.

She further emphasized that only registered and qualified members who met all constitutional requirements were eligible to contest or vote, underscoring the importance of internal party discipline.

Sanwo-Olu Commends Party Structure

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised the APC for maintaining what he described as party supremacy and unity in Lagos.

“In the entire country, we have demonstrated that the party is supreme,” Sanwo-Olu said, noting that the Lagos chapter remains strengthened by unity of purpose.

He also extended appreciation to President Tinubu, highlighting the inclusive structure of the party and its openness to new members while maintaining core progressive values.

Ojelabi’s Acceptance Speech

In his acceptance remarks, Ojelabi reflected on the achievements of his first term, pointing to strengthened party structures and electoral victories.

“We have demonstrated that the APC is not just a party, but a movement—a movement for progress,” he said.

He described upcoming elections as an opportunity to consolidate unity and deepen grassroots engagement. According to him, sustained collaboration among members will be critical to maintaining good governance and delivering development across Lagos State.

Ojelabi also addressed youth and women inclusion within the party. He noted that all 376 councillors in Lagos fall within the youth age bracket, presenting it as evidence of deliberate generational transition. Additionally, he highlighted the election of a young assistant woman leader as part of efforts to increase female participation in party leadership.

“To the younger generation, you will see the practical demonstration we have displayed,” he said, encouraging broader engagement across communities.

Political Implications

The re-election of Ojelabi through consensus has sparked political interpretations, particularly regarding zoning considerations for future elections in Lagos State. Some party observers believe the outcome may influence calculations ahead of the next governorship race.

Nonetheless, party leaders maintain that the focus remains on strengthening internal cohesion and expanding the APC’s grassroots reach in Africa’s largest subnational economy.

As Lagos continues to play a central role in Nigeria’s political landscape, the APC’s internal dynamics are expected to shape broader national conversations within the ruling party.