Lagos-based socio-cultural group, De Renaissance Patriots Foundation, has condemned what it describes as the “systematic marginalization” of indigenous Lagosians in the state’s political structure.
The group, in a statement issued on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, by its Media Office, alleged that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is imposing non-indigenes in key leadership positions, sidelining qualified Lagos natives.
The statement, titled “Exposed: Systematic Marginalization of Lagos Indigenes” with the rider “A Call for Indigenous Solidarity”, specifically addressed the ongoing political crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly. The group accused President Tinubu of orchestrating efforts to remove the first female Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, to pave the way for another candidate loyal to him.
Allegations of external influence
According to De Renaissance Patriots Foundation, the President has enlisted the intervention of former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba, and former Osun State Governor, Bisi Akande, to pressure Meranda into stepping down.
“It is an insulting disregard for Lagos indigenes that President Tinubu invited Chief Bisi Akande (Osun) and Chief Olusegun Osoba (Ogun) to mediate in Lagos Assembly affairs. Their involvement threatens the democratic decision of 38 House members who reaffirmed confidence in Meranda,” the statement read.
The group further alleged that Akande and Osoba’s influence in Lagos politics stems from personal and family benefits, citing Akande’s children holding strategic government positions, including as a Local Government Chairman and a Director at Lekki Free Trade Zone.
Appointments of non-indigenes spark controversy
The group also raised concerns over the appointment of non-indigenes into key federal positions meant for Lagos representation. It cited the appointment of Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, originally from Ogun State, as a Minister representing Lagos. Similarly, it criticized the appointments of Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi (Oyo) as Director-General of NOTAP and Professor Bolaji Akinyemi (Osun) in another federal role representing Lagos.
“Despite having highly qualified Lagos indigenes, the pattern of appointing non-indigenous figures into strategic government positions continues unchecked, excluding rightful representatives of Lagos,” the statement alleged.
Call for indigenous solidarity
The De Renaissance Patriots Foundation urged Lagos indigenes to resist what it described as a deliberate attempt to erase their identity and political influence. It called for unity among indigenous Lagosians to reclaim their stake in the governance of the state.
“Land is as important to man as it is to a tree. Lagos belongs to a distinct indigenous group with deep-rooted historical ties. The continuous displacement of its people in political affairs must stop if peace and development are to be sustained,” the statement added.
The group further questioned whether President Tinubu would tolerate similar external interference in the National Assembly or other APC-controlled states.
Political implications
The allegations come at a time when political tensions are rising in Lagos ahead of the 2027 elections. While the APC has maintained dominance in the state, growing discontent among indigenous groups could impact the party’s stronghold.
Observers, however, note that the debate over indigenous representation versus political loyalty is likely to remain a contentious issue in Lagos politics.
