2027: Obi’s performance in Anambra not enough to defeat APC in Lagos — Former lawmaker
By Adegboyega Adeleye
Former Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Kolawole Taiwo, asserted that the performance of Peter Obi as governor of Anambra State should not be compared to the achievements of previous administrations in Lagos. He emphasized that the opposition, specifically the Labour Party, cannot leverage Obi’s record to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos.
Taiwo made these remarks during an appearance on Vanguard’s Politics Hub, where he analyzed the APC’s continued dominance in Lagos and reflected on lessons learned from the 2023 general elections. In those elections, the party’s presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, faced a formidable challenge from Obi.
While discussing the party’s electoral experience in 2023, Taiwo acknowledged that the outcome was unexpected for many members of the APC, but he indicated that it has ultimately strengthened the party.
“We were shocked four years ago, but when you experience a shock, it can make you stronger,” he said.
Taiwo noted that the issues contributing to the party’s electoral setback in 2023 are no longer as prevalent. He stated that the APC has taken proactive measures to ensure its perspectives are better communicated to the public.
“What happened four years ago is not happening now. The factors that led to that loss are no longer visible,” Taiwo stated.
He dismissed claims that the Igbo community was responsible for the electoral outcome in Lagos, asserting that the results reflected broader public dissatisfaction, particularly among younger voters.
“Some people said it was the Igbos, but I disagree. The significant factor was the Gen-Z voters and their desire for a change in leadership,” he argued.
Taiwo highlighted the APC’s initiatives to amplify its voice, indicating that his participation in the program was part of the party’s efforts to share its narrative, which he felt had been overlooked.
“We have introduced various strategies. For instance, programs like this allow us to present our side of the story. The previous narrative was one-sided,” he explained.
Regarding Obi’s tenure in Anambra, Taiwo questioned the validity of using it as a basis for contesting the APC’s achievements in Lagos. He asserted that each state operates under different circumstances.
“Obi cannot come and claim, ‘I performed in Anambra.’ How can one measure that against Lagos? To base an election on his performance in Anambra indicates a misunderstanding of the situation,” he stated.
He reiterated that while each governor might have accomplishments in their respective states, Obi’s record should not be the sole criterion for evaluating the APC’s performance in Lagos.
“You cannot compare his performance in Anambra to that of Lagos. Even a governor with minimal competence would have some achievements to showcase,” Taiwo concluded.
