Arewa APC leader in Lagos cries foul over marginalisation, demands inclusion ahead of 2027 polls

Arewa APC leader in Lagos cries foul over marginalisation, demands inclusion ahead of 2027 polls

Lagos, Nigeria – June 6, 2025

The Apex Leader of the Arewa Community within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos West II, Hon. (Dr.) Ibrahim Tanko, has raised the alarm over what he described as the total relegation, downgrade, and exclusion of his ethnic group from political appointments and recognition within the Lagos State chapter of the ruling party.

In a press statement released on Thursday, Dr. Tanko said the Arewa community, a formidable support base for the APC in Lagos, has been unfairly sidelined despite playing a crucial role in securing victory for the party in the 2023 general elections.

"We regretfully issue this press release on behalf of the Arewa community in Lagos State. We were proud members of the APC and worked tirelessly during the last elections. Today, we feel overlooked, forgotten, and abandoned," the statement read.

Dr. Tanko expressed disappointment that no acknowledgment or follow-up engagement has come from the party's elected representatives, despite the sacrifices made by the Arewa bloc, including financial contributions and logistical support such as the donation of over 300 campaign buses, the erection of campaign billboards, and the distribution of branded campaign materials.

"Many of the senators, members of the House of Representatives, and other officeholders today are occupying their positions largely due to the support of our community, yet we have received no appreciation, not even a thank-you visit,” he added.

The Arewa APC leader lamented the drastic reduction in political representation for the community in Lagos State. While the group previously had up to ten councillors and supervisory councillors, the recent party primaries produced only one successful Arewa councilorship aspirant.

He further criticised certain APC lawmakers, including Senator Adebule of Lagos West and Hon. Kalejaiye Adeboye, representing Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, accusing them of neglecting the Arewa community after benefiting from their electoral backing.

In contrast, Dr. Tanko commended Senator Tokunbo Abiru of Lagos East for supporting Arewa pilgrims during this year’s Hajj, as well as Hon. Sabur Akanbi Oluwa of Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency II and Hon. Fatai Adekunle Ayoola, Executive Chairman of Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA, for their inclusion and consistent support to the community.

The Arewa APC leader warned that the group may not be able to mobilise votes in the upcoming local government elections or the 2027 general elections if the current trend continues.

“This release is a call to the leadership of our great party to listen to our concerns, recognize our contributions, and address the growing dissatisfaction within the Arewa APC in Lagos. Our loyalty deserves inclusion, not neglect,” he concluded.