By Our Correspondent, Lagos
Political tension in Ikorodu Federal Constituency has escalated as reactions intensify over what many describe as Hon. Babajimi Benson’s alleged move to seek a fourth term in the House of Representatives.
Hon. Benson, who has represented the constituency since 2015 through victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023, is already completing 12 years in office. However, the growing concern among stakeholders is that another term would extend his continuous representation toward 16 years, a development many in the constituency strongly oppose.
Across Ikorodu, the response has shifted from quiet concern to open resistance. Youth groups, community stakeholders, and political observers are increasingly vocal, insisting that prolonged leadership in one individual limits opportunities for others and weakens political inclusiveness.
The debate has also taken on a deeper dimension tied to religious balance. Stakeholders are drawing attention to the tenure of Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who served the constituency for three consecutive terms from 2003 to 2015. As a Muslim, her time in office is often referenced as part of a broader understanding of religious and political balance in Ikorodu.
With Hon. Benson, a Christian, also completing three terms, stakeholders argue that continuing further would disrupt this established balance. Many insist that, in the interest of fairness and inclusion, it is now the turn of a Muslim candidate to emerge and continue that pattern of shared representation.
Beyond religion, the issue of zoning is also gaining attention. There is a growing position that Ikorodu Constituency 1 must now produce the next representative, as many believe Constituency 2 has had significant advantage in recent electoral cycles. Stakeholders argue that failure to correct this would amount to imbalance and exclusion.
Within party structures, tensions are also rising. There are increasing calls for internal fairness, with stakeholders insisting that the Justice Forum must be given the opportunity to produce a candidate after years of dominance by the Mandate Group.
While supporters of Hon. Benson points to his experience and long-standing service, critics argue that allowing a fourth term, pushing his tenure toward 16 years, is no longer acceptable within a democratic system that should encourage rotation and broader participation.
As the political climate continues to heat up, Ikorodu now stands at a critical point, with growing pressure for balance, fairness, and a possible shift in political direction ahead of the next election cycle.
