Market leaders in Lagos State led by Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the Iyaloja General, have expressed dissatisfaction with the outcomes of the just concluded primary elections or the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in some areas of Lagos.
- +APC primaries: Lagos market leaders threaten action, demand fairness
The market leaders, who addressed the media, said they were not in tune with some of the results announced , alleging that candidates who enjoyed their massive support were schemed out and denied victory
The market leaders, who addressed the media, said they were not in tune with some of the results announced , alleging that candidates who enjoyed their massive support were schemed out and denied victory
She said that traders and market associations across the state would resist attempt to deny candidates they believe legitimately won their party primaries.
“We are ready to protest. We know they won this election. The mandate should not be given to somebody else,” she declared.
The Iyaloja General specifically referenced disputes surrounding party primaries in some constituencies, alleging that certain candidates backed by market leaders were denied victory despite enjoying massive support from party members and grassroots voters.
According to her, market associations had endorsed some aspirants because of their longstanding support for traders and responsiveness to issues affecting markets.
She cited one of the preferred candidates, Agege 02 Olaide Mutiu Oladeebo , saying the aspirant enjoyed overwhelming support before the process was allegedly disrupted.
She also raised concerns over internal divisions within the APC, particularly between political blocs within the party, warning against actions capable of discouraging loyal members and supporters.
While expressing confidence in the party’s governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 election, the Iyaloja General said the “incoming governor” still needed to meet with market leaders to discuss the welfare and political inclusion of traders.
“We are prepared to vote for him, but he has to come around. We need to meet with him. We need our slots,” she said, adding that market leaders expect appointments and stronger representation in government after supporting the party during elections.
She stressed that traders do not want a repeat of situations where political office holders allegedly empower only family members and close associates while neglecting grassroots market people.
“Something must be done. We are APC members and we worked for the party. Our work should not go in vain,” she added.
Despite the grievances, the Iyaloja General reaffirmed the commitment of market women and men to the APC and to participating actively in the 2027 elections.
She noted that traders across Lagos had already begun mobilising for the polls through voter registration and collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
The press briefing was held during the regular Tuesday gathering of market leaders at her Alausa residence and coincided with preparations for the Salah celebration.
