The re-election of Cornelius Ojelabi as chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has reinforced the party’s reputation for internal cohesion and strategic continuity in one of Nigeria’s most politically influential states.
During the party’s state congress held on March 3, 2026, delegates returned Ojelabi unopposed for another four-year term. The event, held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, drew more than 2,000 delegates from across the state’s 20 local government areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas.
The congress concluded with a consensus endorsement of Ojelabi and other members of the State Executive Committee, a move widely interpreted as a sign of unity within the Lagos chapter of the ruling party.
Display of Party Unity
Unlike many party congresses across Nigeria that often trigger factional disputes, the Lagos APC gathering was largely peaceful and marked by widespread support for the existing leadership.
Delegates at the venue celebrated the return of Ojelabi through voice affirmation, reinforcing what observers described as a culture of internal alignment that has come to characterise the Lagos chapter of the party.
Addressing the delegates after his re-election, Ojelabi described the moment as a collective achievement for the party.
“As I reflect on the past four years, I am proud of what we have accomplished together—from strengthening the party structure to securing victories at the polls. The APC is not just a party but a movement for progress,” he said.
He also stressed the need for unity as the party prepares for future political challenges.
Oversight of the Congress
The state congress was supervised by a committee chaired by Stella Okotete, who emphasised that the consensus arrangement followed the party’s constitutional procedures.
She told delegates that the congress represented a gathering of “progressive family members united by ideology,” urging participants to respect both the process and the outcome in order to maintain party unity.
Okotete also described Lagos as the “heartbeat of progressive politics” and highlighted its importance as the political base of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Governor’s Endorsement
Speaking at the congress, Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised the state chapter for demonstrating party supremacy through unity and cooperation.
According to the governor, Lagos has consistently demonstrated strong internal discipline within the APC, which has contributed to its political stability and electoral success.
Sanwo-Olu also paid tribute to President Tinubu for fostering a political culture that accommodates new entrants while maintaining the party’s core values.
Composition of the Executive Committee
Alongside Ojelabi’s re-election, the congress ratified a new State Executive Committee reflecting continuity and representation across different groups within the party.
Key members of the committee include:
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Moshood Mayegun – Deputy Chairman
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Adeola Jokomba – Secretary
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Oluseye Oladejo – Publicity Secretary
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Folashade Bakare – Legal Adviser
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Abiodun Ayigbe – Treasurer
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Banjo Adedoyin-Wasiu – Financial Secretary
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Ayodele Adewale – Organising Secretary
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Seriki Muritala – Youth Leader
Observers say the composition of the leadership team reflects efforts to maintain geographical balance, grassroots representation and internal stability within the party.
Focus on Youth and Inclusion
Ojelabi also highlighted the party’s efforts to involve younger members in leadership roles.
According to him, all 376 councillors in Lagos fall within the youth age bracket, while the party recently elected its youngest Assistant Woman Leader as part of efforts to strengthen women’s participation in politics.
The emphasis on youth inclusion reflects Lagos’ evolving political dynamics, particularly given the state’s youthful population and growing demand for broader political representation.
Implications for Lagos APC
Analysts say Ojelabi’s unopposed re-election signals the party’s preference for stability and continuity as it prepares for future political contests and governance challenges.
Consensus arrangements have long been a feature of Lagos APC’s internal politics. While critics argue that the system can suppress dissent, supporters believe it helps manage political ambition and prevent factional conflicts.
With upcoming electoral cycles and governance expectations ahead, the party’s leadership will face the task of translating its internal unity into sustained political support among voters.
For Ojelabi, his second term begins with strong backing from party members. However, maintaining that unity while responding to public expectations and evolving political realities will likely define the next phase of the APC’s dominance in Lagos politics.
