I got a call from the most popular aspirant to the Lagos seat of Government His Excellency Akinwunmi Ambode
He had called to show appreciation for my continued support and in turn, I pledged my absolute loyalty and continued support
Now whether my support will be effective or not is beside the point, what is very critical about my support is that, it perfectly mirrors what my socio-economic demographic wants for Lagos Post SANWO-OLU
Lagos is Africa’s most important commercial hub. It is the 5th Largest in Africa and plays host to some of the most influential economic platforms including the world-renowned Dangote Refinery
We have just heard that the world’s largest player in a strategic sector has secured a 45-year lease to set up a huge factory in Lagos
It’s 22 million people pay the largest taxes in all classifications, it also generates more than 60% of VAT nationwide and houses the most critical economic infrastructure
The Lagos terrain is one of the most sophisticated on the continent with a mesh of cosmopolitan population with varied needs stemming from housing, health, roads and macro and micro economic expectations.
What it needs is a steady hand, hands that understand the guiding and inspiring role of government in an economic melting pot that is Lagos
When I see people pushing the candidacy of someone like Obasa, the sitting speaker, I remember the catastrophe that was Yahaya Bello in Kogi, who on a whim, rushed to shut down a Dangote Factory
His lack of understanding of the complex economic engagements both locally and internationally and the impact of that rash decision on jobs, markets and the rest would most likely be the lot of Nigeria should an economic illiterate, whose only claim to the seat is his ability to secure votes emerge
Lagos needs Ambode for these and many other reasons
Politically, his candidacy ticks almost all the boxes especially the need for a second term only push – allowing for a longer-term visioning of new leadership
But the most critical justification for his emergence is his clarity when it comes to partnering with the private sector in delivering the economic vision of his principal in Abuja
If Lagos is not running on full throttle, there is nothing Abuja would achieve and as such, it is in the interest of Abuja to have Lagos in economic safe hands
His first term was a hive of activities on all fronts but his impact on infrastructure which contributes massively to ease of doing business is there for all to see.
Ambode’s candidacy should not just be left to the powers that be but must be heralded by all so that the Powers in their often Dizzying calculations do not go and make the mistake of choosing a candidate just cos he knows how to carry files in Abuja or just cos he is holding down the largest Local Government in the state
Lagos needs an economically sound leader and a Leader who comes to the table with clarity and an undivided sense of purpose and from where I stand, I see Akinwunmi Ambode
Come and beat me
Thanks
Duke of Shomolu
Last modified: March 16, 2026
