Amodu Shehu, an IT professional and the son of a renowned pepper seller from Oyingbo, has received a total of N5.5 million from market women and other community groups to purchase the APC nomination forms to contest the chairmanship position of the Lagos Mainland Local Government Council.
Shehu stated that traders, artisans, youths, and community leaders around Oyingbo Market funded his nomination and administrative fees to support his political ambition. He made this announcement on Friday during the unveiling of his nomination forms and his official declaration to run for the chairmanship of the Lagos Mainland Local Government Council.
Shehu pledged to honour the trust placed in him and deliver inclusive, people-centred leadership if elected into office as he reflecting on his upbringing in Lagos Mainland, he promised to prioritise education, youth empowerment, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development.
“With my background as a pepper seller’s son from a humble community, I understand the struggles and will fight for meaningful change.
“Together, we can secure a better future for the children of Lagos Mainland through unity and commitment to progress,” he said.
He described his aspiration as a product of love for community, wide consultation, and a strong vision for rapid development.
“I seek to provide visionary, purposeful, and competent leadership that meets the hopes of our people,” Shehu stated.
He also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received, saying he is equipped with the knowledge, experience and exposure needed to lead.
Market leader, Mrs Iyabode Agboola, said traders came together to fund the forms because Shehu represents their hopes and struggles.
“Amodu is one of us. He grew up in our market and knows the reality of our everyday lives.
“This campaign is our collective project and we stand firmly behind him,” Agboola said.
Ms. Bakare Adetokunbo, another market leader, stated that they contributed to purchasing the APC nomination form because Shehu understands their struggles.
“His mother sells peppers like I do. He knows the value of every naira and won’t forget his roots,” Adetokunbo said.
Local carpenter Mr. Femi Akande expressed that artisans are supporting Shehu because he will advocate for their future and that of their children.
Ward G Councillor and youth leader Mr. Biliaminu Saka remarked that Shehu’s leadership will bring smiles to the faces of struggling residents.
“Shehu represents dynamic, youthful leadership. He has a track record of mobilizing young people for positive change. He brings energy, passion, and fresh ideas to local government,” Saka stated.
In a similar vein, Ward D Councillor Mr. Ayodele Isiekwene mentioned that Shehu’s support throughout the community reflects strong grassroots belief in his candidacy.
“He’s one of us and understands our challenges. Amodu will be a true voice for the people,” Isiekwene said.
Market women, artisans, and APC members gathered in large numbers to show their solidarity with Shehu’s candidacy, which enjoys widespread support from local residents.
The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has scheduled elections for July 12 in all 57 council areas across the state.
