ETI-OSA POLITICAL STORM: Stakeholders Reject Alleged Imposition, Say “No to Fifth Term”
Petition alleges intimidation, cyber harassment, voter suppression, and attempts to influence party primary process in Eti-Osa Constituency II
A major political controversy is unfolding within Eti-Osa Constituency II of Lagos State following a petition by concerned party stakeholders alleging intimidation, coercion, cyber harassment, and attempts to undermine internal party democracy ahead of the forthcoming Lagos State House of Assembly primary election.
The petition, submitted by individuals identifying themselves as concerned stakeholders within the constituency, raises serious concerns over what they describe as coordinated efforts to influence the outcome of the party’s primary election and impose a preferred candidate on party members.
At the center of the controversy is the reported push for the return of incumbent lawmaker Hon. Olusegun Yishawu for what would represent a fifth consecutive term in the Lagos State House of Assembly — an uninterrupted tenure that would amount to approximately twenty years of representation within the same constituency.
The development has sparked growing resistance among some stakeholders who insist that the constituency should not be subjected to what they describe as political monopolization.
“Our message is simple and clear: No to a fifth term,” the stakeholders declared in the petition.
According to them, the principle of democratic participation and inclusiveness demands periodic leadership renewal and broader opportunities for representation.
They argue that continued concentration of political representation in the hands of a single individual over two decades could potentially weaken political development and contradict the ideals of fairness and internal democracy.
The petition also makes allegations against former Minister of Finance Hon. Wale Edun, claiming that he has been exerting influence and pressure on aspirants and political stakeholders in support of Hon. Yishawu’s bid.
The stakeholders alleged that aspirants have faced pressure to step aside and support a preferred candidate.
In addition, they claimed that substantial financial inducements — allegedly amounting to hundreds of millions of naira — have been offered to persuade contestants to withdraw from the race.
The petition further alleges that some aspirants who reportedly refused to sign what were described as “voluntary withdrawal agreements” are now facing various forms of intimidation and political pressure.
Among the allegations raised are claims of cyber bullying, cyber stalking, harassment, threats, and voter suppression tactics allegedly intended to weaken opposition within the party.
The stakeholders argued that such developments could create perceptions of unfairness and raise concerns regarding equity and internal democratic processes within the party.
Political observers note that internal party contests often play a critical role in determining broader electoral stability, particularly in highly strategic constituencies such as Eti-Osa.
Analysts warn that unresolved grievances surrounding candidate selection processes can generate divisions capable of affecting party cohesion and public perception.
The petitioners expressed concern that if the allegations remain unaddressed, the situation could negatively impact confidence in the integrity of the primary election process and potentially create avoidable tensions within the constituency.
They subsequently called on the party’s National Working Committee and Lagos State leadership to immediately investigate the allegations and ensure transparency in the primary process.
Specifically, they requested a comprehensive investigation into claims of intimidation, coercion, voter suppression, cyber bullying, and political harassment.
They also urged party leaders to provide a level playing field for all aspirants, prevent candidate imposition, protect contestants and supporters from intimidation, and uphold principles of fairness, justice, and equal opportunity.
Despite the concerns raised, the stakeholders reaffirmed their loyalty and commitment to the party and expressed confidence that the leadership would act to preserve peace and democratic credibility within Eti-Osa Constituency II.
As political activities intensify ahead of the primaries, attention now shifts to party authorities and how they will respond to the growing concerns emerging from one of Lagos State’s closely watched constituencies.
At the time of publication, the individuals named in the petition had not publicly responded to the allegations.
