Ogun LG Elections: “We Won’t Engage APC In Dirty Politics”, PDP Fires Back, Says APC Lacks Integrity Leaders

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) are locked in a heated exchange over the management and future of Falawo Market, with representatives of both parties trading accusations ahead of the upcoming local government elections in Sagamu.

The row between the two political rivals has intensified as allegations of misconduct, poor governance, and “dirty politics” echo through Sagamu’s campaign trails.

Falawo Market Controversy: The Root of the Dispute

The Falawo Market, a central trading hub for Sagamu residents, has become a battleground for political influence. The market’s management and rehabilitation plans have sparked a back-and-forth between APC and PDP officials, each accusing the other of using the market to manipulate public opinion and gather voter support. PDP representatives claim that the APC’s handling of market issues has been lackluster and disorganized, leading to unnecessary hardship for traders.

According to PDP spokespersons, ongoing issues at Falawo Market was purposely generated by APC to mislead the good people of Sagamu. “Facts and figures that we’re supposed to hear have not been addressed despite previous commitments from APC officials.”

The PDP has also accused APC leaders of inflating campaign promises to improve the market without taking concrete steps to follow through. This issue was further highlighted during an APC campaign rally, where the APC chairmanship candidate, Ogbeni Afolabi Jubril Odulate reportedly made statements targeting PDP leaders, accusing them of politicizing the market’s woes.

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PDP Defends Itself, Vows Not to “Stoop Low”

Omooba Damilare Mohammed Bello, representing PDP in Offin, Sagamu 1 State Constituency at the 10th Ogun State House of Assembly, has publicly criticized the APC’s campaign tactics, calling the APC’s comments “immature” and “a distraction from real issues.” Bello stated, “I will defend and protect my party but won’t stoop so low to play ‘dirty politics’ like they’ve done in a viral video that’s trending.”

While Bello remained measured in his response, other PDP leaders have been vocal in condemning APC chairmanship candidate, Ogbeni Afolabi Jubril Odulate handling of market affairs and his approach during the campaign in Ward 7. These PDP leaders accuse the APC of failing to address the genuine concerns of the market traders, instead resorting to personal attacks to shift attention away from unresolved market issues.

APC Responds, Claims PDP is “Playing Victim”

In response, APC officials in Sagamu defended their campaign statements, asserting that the PDP’s reactions are a “desperate attempt to play victim.” The APC argues that the market challenges stem from broader economic issues that require a coordinated approach, not just local governance efforts. According to APC leaders, the PDP’s public comments aim to rally opposition sentiment rather than propose solutions.

The APC chairmanship candidate has reiterated promises to rehabilitate the market, stating that their administration, if elected, will make Falawo Market a priority. However, APC’s critics remain unconvinced, pointing to what they claim is a history of unfulfilled promises.

However, the Falawo Market controversy has highlighted deep-seated issues around local governance and public accountability in Sagamu, with both parties struggling to convince voters they hold the solutions. For traders and residents who rely on Falawo Market, the situation has added to frustration as the upcoming election intensifies political tension. Local stakeholders are now looking to see if either party will provide clear solutions to revitalize the market and address ongoing infrastructure issues.

As the election approaches, it remains to be seen whether the market controversy will continue to be a decisive issue or if the parties will shift focus to broader developmental plans for Sagamu. For now, both APC and PDP candidates are vying for the hearts and votes of Sagamu residents, each seeking to paint the other as unfit to lead.

Meanwhile, the campaign trail moved from Ward 1 through ward 14 to ward 15 with the high momentum of the people in the community that welcomed PDP shouting ‘no food, no basic amenities to survive, APC must go, we’re tired of them’.