The Several Atrocities of Ojelabi and Why He Must Go

 *The Several Atrocities of Ojelabi and Why He Must Go*

Recent developments within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State have brought to light numerous failings and missteps by Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, the current State Chairman. His tenure has been marred by a series of actions and inactions that have not only failed to unite the party but have also threatened its very foundation. A critical mediation at these atrocities committed by Ojelabi, highlight the level of damage he has done to the party, with convincing reasons on why he must step down immediately.

Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi was appointed to manage and unify the APC in Lagos State. However, his tenure has been anything but unifying. Instead of addressing the core issues facing the party, Ojelabi has been preoccupied with commissioning projects and touring the nation, neglecting his primary responsibility of holding the party together. This distraction has led to significant discontent among party members, who feel abandoned and leaderless.

Under Ojelabi's leadership, the APC suffered a significant setback in the last general election, losing Lagos to the opposition Labour Party. This defeat alone should have been a wake-up call for Ojelabi to focus on strengthening the party. Instead, reports indicate that he is more interested in using party resources for his personal political ambitions, including a rumored bid for the office of Deputy Governor in 2027. His focus on personal advancement over party unity is unacceptable and detrimental to the APC's future success.

One of the most critical functions of a party chairman is to ensure regular and productive meetings at all levels of the party structure. Unfortunately, under Ojelabi's watch, the APC has failed to hold regular political meetings from the zonal to the LGA level. This neglect has stifled communication and strategic planning within the party, further contributing to its decline. Previous administrations have shown the value of periodic meetings, and abandoning this tradition is a severe misstep.

Ojelabi's tenure has also seen a rise in ethnic tensions within the party. His leadership style has exacerbated divisions, rather than promoting inclusivity and unity. This agitation for ethnic dominance and leadership entitlement threaten to tear the party apart and undermines the principle of a united front necessary for political success.

In a shocking move, Ojelabi has resorted to authoritarian tactics to suppress dissent within the party. He has made history as the first APC chairman to involve the police in the mass arrest of party members following a peaceful protest. This heavy-handed approach is unprecedented and signals a dangerous trend towards silencing opposition through intimidation rather than dialogue.

Ojelabi has further distinguished himself as the first chairman to issue mass suspensions to party members. Given the party's current weakened state, suspending thousands of members is not only irrational but also detrimental. It raises serious questions about his priorities and whether he is working in the best interests of the APC or covertly aiding the opposition by weakening the party from within.

There have also been allegations of corruption under Ojelabi's leadership. During the 2023 general election, funds meant for campaign activities were reportedly siphoned off by senior party officials aligned with Ojelabi. Alimosho local government was a case study, as Alhaji Abdullahi Enilolobo received a whooping sum of 125 million naira for the Presidential election which he claimed was for some unnamed contract. After being challenged, Enilolobo declared 80 million naira which was eventually shared between his group and the Orelope-led group. The about 36 million naira doled to the ASM was also siphoned by her closest cronies. Despite the report on these serious allegations, no investigations was launched by Ojelabi. This further highlights Ojelabi's worrying lack of transparency and accountability.

Given these failings, it is clear that Ojelabi's continued leadership poses a significant threat to the APC's unity and success. His inability to provide effective leadership, coupled with his focus on personal ambition and authoritarian tactics, makes it imperative for genuine party leaders to act swiftly. The All Progressives Congress needs a leader who prioritizes unity, transparency, and strategic growth.

We call on the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress, the executive Governor of Lagos State and other prominent stakeholders in the party to commence an immediate process to replace Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi. His tenure has caused more harm than good, and it is time for a change. Ojelabi must go for the sake of the party's future and the principles it stands for.

Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi has overstayed his welcome as the State Chairman of the APC in Lagos State. His multiple failings and destructive leadership style necessitate his immediate replacement. The APC deserves a leader who can truly unify and lead the party to greater heights and future victories. It is time for Ojelabi to step down. Ojelabi must go!

Alabi Ade