ABIODUN FAWUMI
As political tensions continue to trail the recently concluded APC primaries in Eti-Osa Constituency 1, reports of a planned protest scheduled for Thursday, 4th June, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., with participants expected to converge at the Eleganza Toll Gate by Chevron, Lekki, have raised concerns among residents, stakeholders, and observers of Lagos politics.
The protest, being promoted under the banner “Rally to Protect Our Mandate,” is reportedly linked to the dissatisfaction of Hon. Noheem Adams, the current Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, following the emergence of Hon. Saheed Bankole as the APC’s candidate for Eti-Osa Constituency I in the party’s recently concluded primary election.
While every citizen possesses the constitutional right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, it is important to appreciate the realities of the times in which we live. Nigeria is currently grappling with multiple security challenges, including violent crime, youth restiveness, political violence, and organized criminal activities. Under such circumstances, any large public gathering regardless of its original intention, it runs the risk of being infiltrated by hoodlums, political opportunists, and criminal elements seeking to exploit the situation for selfish purposes.
The painful memories of the EndSARS protests remain fresh in the minds of many Nigerians. What began as a legitimate civic movement eventually became vulnerable to infiltration in several locations, resulting in destruction of public and private property, disruption of economic activities, and tragic loss of lives. Lagos State bore a significant share of that experience, and responsible political leaders should be mindful of those lessons.
If Hon. Noheem Adams believes there were irregularities, injustices, or procedural violations during the APC primary process, there are established mechanisms within the party for seeking redress. The APC has appeal structures, reconciliation committees, state leadership channels, and national organs specifically designed to address grievances arising from internal elections.
Political disagreements should be resolved through these institutional frameworks rather than through actions that may unintentionally heighten tensions within the constituency or create an atmosphere of uncertainty.
There is also a broader concern. If every aspirant dissatisfied with the outcome of a primary election chooses to mobilize supporters for street protests, it could establish a dangerous precedent. Similar actions may be replicated across Lagos State and other parts of Nigeria by candidates who feel shortchanged, potentially creating an environment of instability and avoidable political conflict.
Eti-Osa Constituency does not belong to any single individual, political family, or political bloc. Democracy thrives on participation, competition, and acceptance of outcomes. Delegates and party members are empowered to make choices, and while those choices may not satisfy every aspirant, they must ultimately be respected if democratic institutions are to retain credibility.
Beyond the current controversy, residents are justified in asking important questions about representation, development, and governance. After more than a decade of legislative service and having risen to the influential office of Majority Leader, many constituents believe Eti-Osa should have experienced more visible and measurable development outcomes.
Among the concerns frequently raised by residents are:
* Poor internal road infrastructure in several communities.
* Persistent environmental sanitation and waste management challenges.
* Limited youth empowerment and job creation initiatives.
* Insufficient vocational training and skills acquisition programmes.
* Rising social challenges affecting young people across the constituency.
* Lack of sustainable community development projects capable of improving living standards.
These are issues that directly affect the daily lives of the people and deserve greater attention than prolonged political disputes.
At this moment, the focus of leadership should remain on service delivery, economic opportunities, community development, and the welfare of constituents. The people of Eti-Osa deserve constructive engagement, not political tensions that could threaten the peace and stability for which Lagos State is known.
Security agencies, community leaders, party elders, and relevant stakeholders should closely monitor developments surrounding the proposed June 4 protest and ensure that any gathering remains peaceful, orderly, and within the confines of the law. Preventive measures should be taken to discourage any attempt by criminal elements to hijack the event or create public disorder.
Ultimately, democracy is strengthened not by confrontation in the streets but by confidence in institutions, dialogue, and adherence to due process. At this critical time, preserving peace, protecting democratic values, and safeguarding public safety must remain the collective responsibility of all political actors and citizens alike.
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and are intended to promote peaceful democratic engagement, respect for the rule of law, and confidence in established political processes.
