- LASCOTA Ibeju-Lekki embroiled in leadership tussle over delayed elections
- Outgoing chairman calls for adherence to the constitution and democratic process
- Local government and traditional authorities urged to intervene and ensure peace
The Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA), Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, is currently grappling with a leadership dispute that has drawn the attention of local government officials, traditional rulers, and political leaders.
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Eko Hot Blog reports that the dispute centers on the delayed election of a new executive committee and the recognition of a self-proclaimed chairman, which former leaders say undermines the association’s constitution.
The outgoing Chairman of LASCOTA, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Comrade Funmilayo Omolara Johnson, alongside some members of the association, has called on the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, the LASCOTA State President, Mr. Lawrence Ajayi, the Onibeju of Ibeju Land, HRM Oba Waliu Olasunkanmi Rasak, the Federal Lawmaker representing Ibeju-Lekki, Hon. Bayo Balogun, and the two State Assembly members, Hon. Fatai Mojeed and Hon. Oladele Ajayi (Oladbaba), to intervene and ensure that proper procedures are followed.
Comrade Johnson expressed concern over the alleged delay in holding elections and undue recognition being given to Mr. Sesan Mujaidu Alashe, who has been presenting himself as the chairman despite the absence of a formal electoral process.
“My tenure as Chairman ended a few months ago, and I am still seeking re-election for a second term.
We purchased forms, were screened, and elections were scheduled for November 13, 2025, but the process could not hold because Mr. Alashe has continued to parade himself as chairman,” she said.
Johnson added that her appeal is not for personal gain but for adherence to the association’s constitution and democratic principles.
“Even if I don’t win at the polls, I will be happy as long as due process is followed. LASCOTA is law-abiding and peaceful. No one should be allowed to impose leadership for political convenience or selfish interest,” she stressed.
On the other hand, Mr. Sesan Mujaidu Alashe defended his position, saying he was appointed by the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki, Hon. Olowa, after a selection process at the State level.
“Since then, I have been recognized by political leaders and traditional authorities. I have been carrying out the duties of the chairman and distributing association benefits accordingly.
I have not lobbied for this position; I accepted it as a call to service,” Alashe said.
Other key stakeholders have also weighed in. Comrade Adewuyi Abiodun, outgoing Vice-Chairman, and Alhaji Ismail AbdulAzeez, Chairman of the Care-Taker Committee, emphasized the need for a formal election to settle the matter.
AbdulAzeez explained that the committee had sold forms to interested candidates and conducted screenings, but the process was disrupted when some members allegedly tried to bypass due process by parading a parallel leadership.
Mr. Ayorinde, Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, noted that the local government would engage with all parties but stressed that LASCOTA operates independently while associating with the council.
The LASCOTA State President, Mr. Lawrence Ajayi, could not be reached for comment.
The situation highlights a growing demand for accountability, adherence to constitutions, and respect for democratic processes within professional associations in the area.
