Early Political Maneuvers: Apatira Cultivates Support for 2027 Assembly Bid
The political landscape of Surulere is already buzzing with activity as Hon. (Dr.) Ahmed Olanrewaju Apatira, the immediate past Chairman of Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA), embarks on a comprehensive series of political consultations. These strategic engagements, aimed at positioning himself for the 2027 Lagos State House of Assembly election, underscore a proactive approach to securing support from various echelons of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Apatira’s strategy, as he articulated, is designed to forge a broad-based coalition within the party. This involves not only seeking endorsements from the party’s leadership but also actively engaging with the grassroots membership. The consultations are meticulously planned to span apex leaders, party executives, and key stakeholders within Surulere Constituency 2, with the overarching goals of consolidating support, fostering party cohesion, and aligning a robust campaign strategy for the anticipated electoral contest.
Building Bridges: Meetings with Key Party Figures
A series of high-profile meetings have marked the initial phase of Apatira’s consultative tour. A pivotal strategic session was held with Chief David O. Adenekan, the APC Surulere Apex Leader. Discussions during this encounter reportedly focused on bolstering political strength within the constituency through structured mobilization efforts and fostering inclusive stakeholder engagement. Insiders view this meeting as a significant indicator of Apatira’s growing acceptance and influence within the local hierarchy of the APC.
In a separate but equally significant engagement, Apatira conferred with Hon. Femi Odunayo Daniel, the current Executive Chairman of Itire-Ikate LCDA. Both leaders reportedly underscored the critical importance of well-coordinated grassroots structures and a shared vision for development priorities within the constituency. This interaction highlighted the campaign’s commitment to making a tangible impact at the community level and fostering collaborative initiatives.
Further refining his political strategy, Apatira met with Pharm. Abayomi Daramola, the APC Vice Chairman for Lagos Central. This discussion aimed to strengthen institutional support for his candidacy within the wider party framework. The meeting also emphasized the ongoing efforts to consolidate party structures in anticipation of the intense competition for the party’s ticket in the lead-up to the elections.
Momentum and Endorsements
The burgeoning momentum behind Apatira’s potential candidacy is further evidenced by a series of endorsements and symbolic gestures of support from influential figures. Notably, Hon. Akeem Apatira, who holds the position of General Manager of Drain Ducks, has lent his backing, signaling increasing confidence in Apatira’s prospects.
The consultative process has also extended to seasoned party stalwarts, including former Itire-Ikate LCDA Chairman, Hon. Hakeem Adisa Bamgbola, and APC Local Government Area (LGA) Chairman, Alhaji Ayinde Kushimo. These meetings were instrumental in leveraging their extensive institutional experience and ensuring disciplined coordination across all levels of the party apparatus.
Grassroots Engagement: The Foundation of Support
Recognizing the indispensable role of grassroots support, Apatira’s campaign has also actively engaged with apex leaders at the ward level within Itire-Ikate. These consultations included prominent figures such as Alhaji Liadi Shonubi, Prince Francis Fadoju, Rt. Hon. Arole Fancy, Prince Charles Ekundayo, and Alhaji L.A. Lawal. The discussions centered on effective ward-level mobilization strategies and the seamless integration of local structures into the overarching campaign framework.
While the 2027 elections may still be some time away, Hon. (Dr.) Ahmed Olanrewaju Apatira’s proactive and multifaceted approach to political consultations clearly indicates a strategic effort to secure both institutional backing and broad-based voter support. As the race for the Surulere Constituency 2 seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly gradually takes shape, his early moves are setting a decisive tone for the political discourse ahead.
