By Tayo Ireti
Recent political developments within the All Progressives Congress have presented two contrasting examples of leadership in Lagos State and Ogun State. These developments reveal an important truth in politics: leadership is not merely about power, but about inclusion, consultation, and unity.
In Lagos State, the presentation of the party’s gubernatorial consensus candidate, Dr. Obafemi Kadri Hamzat, to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR at Aso Rock Villa reflected a broad coalition of support.
Photo:The APC consensus candidate for the Governor of Lagos state being presented to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR by the stakeholders and leadership of the party in Lagos state
The presence of the governor, stakeholders, and party leadership symbolized harmony, structure, and collective ownership of the political process. It sent a message that leadership thrives when every voice matters.
However, in Ogun State, the presentation of Solomon Olamilekan Adeola to the President by only Governor Dapo Abiodun and Chief Olusegun Osoba has raised concerns among party faithful.
Photo: Presentation of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola CON as the consensus Ogun State Governorship candidate for APC, by Governor Dapo Abiodun CON and Chief Olusegun Osoba CFR to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR at Aso Rock Villa Abuja
Many observers see the limited representation as a reflection of deeper internal challenges of inclusiveness, participation, and shared responsibility within the state chapter.
Political parties grow stronger when leaders carry everyone along. They weaken when members feel sidelined or disconnected. The strength of any democratic institution lies not in the authority of a few, but in the confidence of the many.
For Ogun APC, this moment should be seen not as a setback, but as an opportunity for reflection and renewal. The national leadership of the party must encourage reconciliation, widen consultations, and rebuild trust among leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots members. A united house is always stronger than a divided one.
The lesson is simple and timeless: political leadership must be democratic, inclusive, and progressive. Lagos has demonstrated one model. Ogun now has the opportunity to write a better chapter of its own.
When leaders unite people, victory becomes easier. When leaders divide people, progress becomes harder. The future of Ogun APC depends on the choices made today.
