Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called upon All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates participating in the forthcoming local government elections to prioritize fairness and equity in their campaigns.
The humid Lagos air hung thick and heavy, mirroring the political tension as the city prepared for its council polls. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his face etched with a mixture of earnestness and the familiar weight of leadership, stood before a gathering of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates. The venue, a brightly lit hall in Ikeja, buzzed with the nervous energy of aspiring councilors, their tailored agbadas and crisp suits radiating a quiet ambition.
“My dear candidates,” Governor Sanwo-Olu began, his voice resonating with authority and a genuine plea, “the eyes of Lagos are upon us. These council polls are not just about winning seats; they are about reaffirming the trust the people have placed in the APC, and more importantly, in the principles of good governance we stand for.”
He paused, letting his gaze sweep across the expectant faces. “As you go out to campaign, to connect with the electorate in your respective wards and local government areas, I implore you to remember one fundamental truth: the path to victory must be paved with fairness and equity.”
A murmur of agreement rippled through the hall. The Governor’s words weren’t merely a platitude; they were a direct address to the potential pitfalls of local politics – the whispers of rigging, the allegations of favoritism, the stark disparities in resource allocation that could alienate communities.
“Fairness,” he continued, emphasizing each syllable, “means respecting the democratic process. It means running clean campaigns, engaging in honest debates, and allowing every voice, regardless of political affiliation, to be heard without fear or intimidation. It means no shortcuts, no manipulation, and certainly no suppression of legitimate opposition.”
He then turned his attention to the concept of equity, a word that held particular significance in a city as vast and diverse as Lagos, with its sprawling slums and affluent enclaves, its vibrant markets and industrial hubs.
“Equity,” Governor Sanwo-Olu elaborated, “is about ensuring that every citizen, no matter where they live or their socio-economic background, feels represented and has a fair chance. It means addressing the unique needs of each community, not just the loudest voices. It means championing policies that uplift the vulnerable, empower the marginalized, and create opportunities for all. Your manifestos, your promises, must reflect this commitment to inclusive development.”
He stressed the importance of unity within the party. “When we are divided, when we resort to infighting or undermine each other, it is the APC that suffers, and it is the people of Lagos who lose. Let us approach these polls as a united front, supporting each other, and focusing on the collective goal of serving our communities.”
He then addressed the candidates directly. “You are the grassroots leaders, the first point of contact for our citizens. Your actions at this level will shape their perception of our party and our government. Show them that the APC is committed to a Lagos that works for everyone, a Lagos where opportunities are accessible, and where every voice matters.”
His closing remarks carried a palpable sense of earnestness. “I call on each and every one of you to be ambassadors of fairness and equity. Let your campaigns be a testament to the values we hold dear. Let your victories, should they come, be a reflection of your dedication to serving the people with integrity and compassion.”
As the meeting concluded, the candidates dispersed, the Governor’s words echoing in their minds. The humid air of Lagos, still thick with anticipation, now carried a new undertone – a commitment, at least in principle, to a cleaner, more equitable electoral process. The true test, however, would be in the coming days, as the campaign machinery truly kicked into gear, and the commitment to fairness and equity would be measured not just in speeches, but in actions on the ground. Governor Sanwo-Olu had set the tone; now it was up to the candidates to prove they could walk the talk.
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