By Dapo Akinrefon

Ahead of the 2027 elections, an aspirant contesting for the Lagos Central Senatorial District on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr Olumide Kola-Lawal, on Saturday, said he has stepped down his ambition for the incumbent, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun.

Addressing select newsmen in the Apapa area of the state, Mr Kola-Lawal said the decision was in line of the consensus arrangement of the party, adding that he was not under pressure to step down.
He stated that his decision to step down was not a retreat from service but “a reaffirmation of our commitment to unity, discipline, and the greater good of the party.”

His words: “In February 2025, what began as a quiet moment of reflection gradually grew into a resolute sense of purpose. Through prayer, counsel, and honest conversations with trusted voices, an idea took
shape – an idea not driven by personal ambition, but by a sincere desire to serve.

“That conviction led me to step forward not alone, but alongside many who believe in a shared future built on responsibility, inclusion, and progress.

“Over the past year, that commitment has been tested and strengthened through action. I made 12 separate visits to Nigeria from the United States, not for ceremony, but for connection. Each journey was an opportunity to listen, to learn, and to engage meaningfully with the people we seek to serve.

“Together, we have walked this path. We engaged across all 13 Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas within Lagos Central Senatorial District. We connected directly with over 90 electoral wards. We consulted widely – across leadership circles, communities, and grassroots stakeholders. And importantly, we held town hall meetings, where we listened – truly listened – to the everyday concerns, hopes, and aspirations of our people.

“More importantly, we had a well structured plan around innovation and entrepreneurship,
human development, and connecting the grassroots to global opportunities.

“This process has been deeply educative. It has reinforced a simple but powerful truth: leadership is not about speaking the loudest, but about listening the most.

“Today, however, I stand before you guided by another principle – one that is essential to democracy
and party unity.

“In line with the provisions of the Electoral Act and the consensus framework adopted by our great
party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), I have made the decision to suspend my campaign forthwith.
“This decision is not a retreat from service. Rather, it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to unity,
discipline, and the greater good of the party and the nation.

“I fully align with the party’s position and lend my support to the Renewed Hope Agenda ofPresident Bola Tinubu. In that spirit, I also support the return of Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun to the Senate in 2027.”
While urging his supporters, partners, and goodwill ambassadors to be mature, understand, and continue belief in the democratic process, he said: “The strength of our movement has never been about one individual; it has always been about our shared values and collective vision.

“I urge you all to stand firm, remain engaged, and support the direction of our party. Let me reassure you: this is not the end of the journey. It is a step within a larger path of service. The relationships we have built, the insights we have gathered, and the trust we have earned will continue to guide our contributions to society. We move forward – together – with hope, unity, and unwavering commitment.”