Members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency have highlighted the achievements of Sen. Idiat Adebule, calling for continuity of her developmental projects.
The stakeholders spoke during the APC senatorial primary election for Lagos West Senatorial District held at Local Authority Nursery and Primary School, Ajeromi-Ifelodun.
Speaking, the Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Mr Olalekan Akindipe, said that party members had mobilised massively to support the senator’s return.
“The senator has performed excellently well and that is why she has continued to enjoy massive support from the people,” he said.
Akindipe commended the performance of women in leadership, saying that women were capable of delivering effective representation.
According to him, President Bola Tinubu has continued to encourage women participation in politics.
“What a man can do, a woman can also do better. Gender equality is what we do in Lagos State.
“Our leader, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, embraces women in politics and encourages them because they also have the right to vote and be voted for,” he said.
He added that Adebule’s unopposed status reflected the confidence party members had in her leadership.
Also speaking, the Coordinator of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Mrs Pat Tekobo, described Adebule as a ‘grassroots politician’ loved by residents.
“The love for Mama West as most people fondly call is massive. Some call her ‘Sisi West’, some call her ‘Mother for All’, depending on how they have benefited from her,” she said.
Tekobo said the senator had executed several a lot of developmental and empowerment projects across the area.
According to her, Adebule facilitated solar streetlights in many streets within Ajeromi-Ifelodun and constructed a 36-classroom block at Awodiora Primary School fully equipped with furniture, electricity and water facilities among others.
Beyond that, she said Adebule has done empowerment programmes, training programmes and seminars for women, youths and residents.
“Her projects have trained and empowered many women to be financially independent.
“She is a mother for everybody,” she said.
Tekobo urged women in Lagos West to support Adebule’s return to the Senate to encourage female representation in governance.
“Women are the bedrock and mothers of the nation. They should support and vote for our sister so that she can continue to promote the image of women and everyone in general,” she said.
She also dismissed claims that only elderly supporters attended the exercise, saying many youths supported the senator but were absent due to work commitments.
“Today is Monday and the timing may not be convenient for some youths because of work, but she carries youths along through programmes and initiatives like the Adebule Youth Council,” she said.
Similarly, a Supporter, Mrs Adijat Mufutao said the senator had been supportive to residents of the district, particularly women, saying that she empowered her to startup a business.
According to her, the tailoring sewing machine she used to earn living presently was provided through one of her empowerment programme
“She has been taking care of us and understands our needs. We want her back in that position,” she said.
Mr John Ogunkoya a former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency II between 1999 and 2011, said his continued participation in politics was driven by commitment to public service.
Commenting on the turnout which was dominated by elderly supporters, Ogunkoya said participation and commitment mattered more than age.
“It is the level of participation that matters. Whether you are old or young, if you cultivate interest in what you are doing, you will get there.
“First and foremost is the grace of God. You must be courageous, honest and acceptable to the people,” he said.
He, therefore, advised young people to develop interest in politics and remain tolerant and people-oriented.
“It is not about you alone. It is the interest of the people you are representing that matters,” he said.
