Ambode’s former aide, Taiwo Ayedun, declares for House of Reps in Oshodi-Isolo

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, political activity is gradually gaining momentum in Lagos State as aspiring candidates begin to signal interest in various elective positions.

Among the early entrants into the race for the House of Representatives is Hon.

Taiwo Ayedun, popularly known as “Shanana,” who has declared his intention to contest for the Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I seat under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ayedun, a political actor with administrative experience at both state and federal levels, says his years of public service have equipped him with the practical knowledge required to effectively represent his constituency at the National Assembly if elected.

Speaking on his ambition, Ayedun highlighted his previous role as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the former Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, describing the experience as a defining period in his political and administrative career.

According to him, serving within the Lagos State Government exposed him to governance structures, policy formulation processes, and the demands of public service delivery in Nigeria’s most populous state.

He further noted that his exposure to federal-level operations in Abuja has broadened his understanding of legislative procedures, constituency representation, and intergovernmental relations skills he believes are essential for effective lawmaking and constituency development.

“I have had the privilege of serving at different levels of government, and each stage has prepared me for greater responsibility,” Ayedun said in a statement outlining his political intentions.

“My experience in Lagos State Government and my time in Abuja have given me insight into how policies are shaped, implemented, and how they impact ordinary citizens.”

Ayedun emphasized that his decision to seek elective office is driven by what he described as a desire to bridge the gap between government and the people of Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I.

He stated that if elected, his focus would be on youth empowerment, infrastructural development, education support, and improved access to social services.

The APC aspirant also pointed to the need for more responsive and accessible representation, arguing that constituents deserve a lawmaker who understands both grassroots realities and the workings of government at higher levels.

Political observers note that Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I remains one of the politically active constituencies in Lagos State, with a diverse population and significant electoral importance.

The area has historically attracted strong competition during elections, particularly within major political parties such as the APC and opposition platforms.

Within the APC structure, early declarations such as Ayedun’s are seen as part of strategic positioning ahead of the party’s primaries, where aspirants will seek to secure the party’s ticket for the 2027 elections.

Party insiders suggest that experience in governance and political visibility often play a key role in determining candidates who emerge successful at the primaries.

Ayedun’s supporters describe him as a politician with administrative depth and grassroots understanding, pointing to his previous engagements within government as evidence of his readiness for legislative responsibilities.

They argue that his blend of state and federal exposure gives him an advantage in understanding both policy and constituency needs.

However, as with any emerging political ambition, analysts say Ayedun will likely face competition from other aspirants within the constituency, especially given the strategic importance of the seat within Lagos politics.

The coming months are expected to see increased consultations, stakeholder engagements, and alignment within party structures as aspirants intensify their groundwork.

For now, Ayedun’s entry into the race adds to the growing list of political figures positioning themselves for the 2027 electoral cycle.

His campaign narrative, centered on experience and governance exposure, is expected to shape his engagements with party leaders and constituents in the build-up to the primaries.

As political activities gradually gather momentum, residents of Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I are watching closely to see how aspirants like Ayedun will translate their political promises into actionable plans capable of addressing local challenges and improving representation at the national level.

The 2027 elections remain months away, but in Lagos politics, early declarations such as this signal the beginning of what is expected to be a highly competitive and strategic political season.