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Allegations Of Political Manipulation And Monetization Of The Electoral Process in Lagos State



We, as concerned residents of Lagos State and committed advocates of democratic accountability, wish to draw urgent public attention to disturbing allegations of political manipulation, financial inducement, intimidation, and coercion currently undermining the integrity of the electoral process across the state.

Of particular concern is the situation in Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency I, where credible reports suggest that the political space is being distorted through the monetization of the process. It is alleged that a particular aspirant, Mr. Lawrence Olanrewaju, engaged in the disbursement of substantial sums to influential actors, including ₦150 million reportedly coordinated through Alhaji Musiliu Ayinde (popularly known as Oluomo), as well as $100,000 allegedly given to Mr. Kamorudeen Olawale Yusuf (Kamosky), a Personal Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Beyond Oshodi-Isolo, similar patterns of political imposition and coercion have been observed across other constituencies in Lagos State. In Agege Federal Constituency, there are strong concerns regarding the forceful imposition of Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, raising serious questions about the erosion of internal democracy. Likewise, in Kosofe Constituency II, there are credible indications of undue influence linked to the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) at the state level.

These allegations, if substantiated, represent a grave assault on democratic principles. The growing normalization of “money bag politics,” intimidation, and elite interference in candidate selection processes threatens to replace the will of the people with the power of financial and political leverage.

We find it particularly troubling that individuals within or connected to the corridors of executive authority may be implicated in actions capable of distorting grassroots representation. Such developments, if left unchecked, will continue to erode public trust, weaken democratic institutions, and disenfranchise citizens.

In light of the foregoing, we call for:
- Immediate and independent investigation by relevant anti-corruption and electoral bodies into these allegations.
- Full transparency and accountability from all individuals mentioned, to either refute or clarify their involvement.
- Strict non-interference by political appointees, aides, and affiliated groups in constituency-level electoral processes.
- The restoration of internal democracy, ensuring that candidates emerge through credible, transparent, and community-driven mechanisms.
- Decisive action against intimidation, coercion, and any form of electoral malpractice across Lagos State.

We reiterate unequivocally that the mandate to represent the people must not be commodified. Public office is a sacred trust that must be earned through integrity, competence, and genuine grassroots support not through financial inducement or coercive influence.

As vigilant citizens, we remain resolute in our commitment to justice, fairness, and the preservation of democratic values. We will continue to speak out and mobilize lawful means to resist any attempt to subvert the will of the people.

Signed:
Mr. Olayiwola Akewushola
Coordinator, Concerned Lagos Residents

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