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By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Babajide Sanwo-Olu |
LAGOS — Chaos and frustration hit the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday, as hundreds of delegates and party faithful found themselves stranded at major transport hubs across the state. The crisis is reportedly linked to the alleged failure of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to release expected mobilization funds ahead of the party’s National Convention in Abuja.
From the Murtala Muhammed International Airport to popular motor parks, the scene was one of political desperation. Many delegates, who had anticipated a coordinated travel arrangement, were seen struggling to secure last-minute tickets as airfares surged and bus seats vanished.
The APC National Convention, scheduled for this weekend (March 26–28, 2026) at Eagle Square, Abuja, is a high-stakes event meant to elect new members of the National Executive Committee. However, for the Lagos contingent, the journey has become a logistical nightmare.
As of Friday morning, witnesses reported that multiple delegates missed their scheduled flights due to late financial clearance. For those traveling by road, the situation was equally dire; many loyalists were seen waiting at parks for hours, expressing open frustration over the lack of support from the state leadership.
"The attention of the public has been drawn to this unfortunate situation. This responsibility traditionally rests with the state’s party leadership, headed by the Governor," a party source stated on condition of anonymity.
Political observers are pointing to a stark contrast between this convention and the 2022 cycle. During Sanwo-Olu’s second-term bid, the mobilization of party structures was described as "extensive and seamless."
The current perceived lapse has raised serious questions among party stakeholders regarding internal cohesion. Critics within the party suggest that with the Governor now in his final term, the urgency to "facilitate" grassroots participation may have diminished, leading to what some call a "commitment gap" in Lagos APC's organizational strength.
While the Lagos wing struggled, delegates from states like Kano, Rivers, and Imo reportedly recorded high levels of mobilization, with large contingents already settled in Abuja.
In a surprising twist, private individuals and independent political groups have stepped in to fill the void. Notable businessman Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana) was reportedly spotted at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, assisting with logistics for some attendees. Additionally, political groups aligned with Nyesom Wike and the SMA Movement have been actively facilitating their own members to ensure a strong presence at Eagle Square.
Despite the local hiccups in Lagos, the overall mood in Abuja remains optimistic. For many, the influence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to be the primary rallying point. Party loyalists insist that the convention will proceed successfully, viewing these logistical challenges as mere "growing pains" ahead of the strategic power shifts expected for the 2027 general elections.