By The Justice Forum (JF), a prominent faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Igbogbo-Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA), is facing crisis over a controversial shadow primary election. The fallout threatens to fracture the group, with accusations of undemocratic practices and favoritism rocking the camp of political heavyweight and GAC member, Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun.
The shadow primary, allegedly introduced to streamline the selection of the APC chairmanship candidate for the LCDA, has been labeled a “kangaroo process” by critics. According to sources within the group, Bashorun claimed the shadow primary was a directive from the State body of the group.
Stakeholders within the Justice Forum, however, claimed the process was manipulated to favor certain aspirants while sidelining others. This has created tension and distrust within the group, which has long dominated the political landscape in Igbogbo-Baiyeku.
Reports suggest that Kunle Bakare, Bakky, a prominent figure at the center of the controversy, is not a registered member of the Justice Forum. However, he is believed to be leveraging the influence of his father, a respected elder in the group, to push his candidacy. His exclusion from the shadow primary has led to sharp divisions within the forum.
The initial screening committee reportedly shortlisted; Gbenga Oshin, Alagbe, and Okedina Maja (the current Vice Chairman). However, this list has been challenged by other aspirants claiming affiliation with the Bashorun-led JF faction, including Hon. MKO Arowolo, Comrade Hammed Aroyewun, and Hon. Sanni Ishola Omotola, FCS, among others.
The situation escalated during the shadow primary proceedings when supporters of Bakky, led by Comrade Sheu Bana, disrupted the process. They demanded Bakky’s inclusion on the ballot and accused the organizers of bias. “This exclusion is an attack on our values and unity,” Bana declared, emphasizing that Bakky had fulfilled all requirements to contest considering his huge contributions to the group in the past.
As tensions rise, political observers fear the ongoing rift could weaken the Justice Forum’s influence in Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA ahead of the coming Lagos State Local Council election. Many are urging leadership to address grievances and restore fairness to prevent further damage to the group’s cohesion and political dominance in the region.
