By Habeeb Ibrahim
The absence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate forced the suspension of the much-anticipated Ikorodu Local Government debate on Sunday, June 29, 2025, leaving attendees disappointed and organizers reconsidering the event’s format and timing.
The much-anticipated 3rd Ikorodu Local Government Chairmanship Debate, convened by the R.E.A.L Initiative in collaboration with Ikorodu Division Youth and other partners was held at the Ikorodu Ultra-Modern Town Hall.
Despite the build-up and promotion surrounding the event, only two out of the three major candidates vying for the chairmanship position , QS. Abdulazeez Awesu of the Labour Party and Princess Sadiat Odofin were present. Their introductory speeches, which were to precede a robust debate, became the sole highlight of the day.
In what was supposed to be a contest of ideas, attendees instead witnessed a reluctant retreat from the debate segment after it became evident that not all candidates were in attendance.
QS. Abdulazeez Awesu, while expressing appreciation for the organisers, declined to proceed with the debate, citing fairness and balance as core principles behind his decision.
“Politics is politics; regardless of the situation or setting. If other political parties had chosen not to be present at this event, I would have still stood by my position not to proceed under those circumstances. Not out of any disrespect to the organizers, but simply based on my own decision and belief in fairness and balanced representation,” he said during his five-minute address.
Princess Sadiat Odofin, however, chose to make the most of her time on stage, presenting her background and vision for Ikorodu. She described herself as a progressive woman with both local roots and global experience.
“Yes, I am a woman. And we, as women, know how to move things forward. We do it every day in our homes… And now, I want to do it for my town,” she declared passionately.
While disappointed by the turnout, she suggested that the organisers consider reconvening the debate with broader outreach.
“Many people weren’t even aware this was happening. I believe there’s room to re-evaluate, go back to the drawing board, and do it even better,” she advised.
In a brief interview after the aborted debate, Abdulazeez Awesu clarified further:
“It’s supposed to be a debate, right, and a credible one at that. But other political parties that are supposed to be here are not dearly represented, and I believe the purpose of this event has been defeated.”
The event’s convener, Abolaji Oluwaseun Elesho, acknowledged the shortcomings but maintained optimism:
“We appreciate those who attended and introduced themselves. When politicians hold rallies, they often speak to their party members. We want them to talk to the people.”
He promised that the idea of a follow-up program before the July 12 elections would be considered.
Mr. SOK Shillings, Chairman of the Event Committee, downplayed the situation, noting that political processes are dynamic:
“It’s not a failure. At least two candidates were present. Even if they say they’re not going up, which I consider a mistake, it’s still a form of expressing their grievance.”
For now, the people of Ikorodu await the rescheduled debate, and more importantly, the outcome of the July 12 local government election.
