Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has sworn in Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa as the substantive Chairman of Agege Local Government, cautioning him against divisive leadership and urging a governance approach anchored on unity and inclusive grassroots development.

The governor gave the advice on Monday during the swearing-in ceremony held at Lagos House, Ikeja, where Obasa was inaugurated alongside Toyin Adejimiwa, who assumed office as a Permanent Secretary.

Obasa, who is the son of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, had previously served as acting chairman before his confirmation and formal inauguration.

Addressing the newly sworn-in officials, Sanwo-Olu described local government as the tier of government closest to the people, stressing that leadership at that level must be visible, responsive, and compassionate. He urged the Agege council chairman to avoid policies or actions that could deepen divisions, emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance that delivers measurable outcomes and tangible benefits to residents.

The governor added that discipline and performance remain the primary benchmarks for leadership effectiveness and career progression within the Lagos State public service.

Sanwo-Olu also acknowledged the presence of retired permanent secretaries at the event, describing them as exemplary public servants whose service and legacies continue to inspire the state’s civil service.

In November 2025, SaharaReporters reported that Obasa officially assumed the chairmanship following the resignation of Hon. Tunde Azeez, who stepped down after going on medical leave shortly after his swearing-in on July 26, 2025. Azeez reportedly resigned to focus on treatment for an undisclosed illness.

His resignation paved the way for Obasa, then serving in an acting capacity, to assume full leadership of the council.

Commenting on the development at the time, Azeez’s media aide, Rotimi Sulaiman, said the decision was guided strictly by health concerns, describing it as a responsible choice. He praised Obasa’s leadership qualities, noting that he had demonstrated capacity and vision during his period as acting chairman.

However, opposition parties have criticized the transition, describing it as a “carefully scripted succession.” They argue that the circumstances surrounding Azeez’s resignation and Obasa’s emergence suggest a prearranged political plan.

Critics also recalled resistance from some stakeholders when Obasa was selected as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the July 12 local government election.

Despite the controversy, supporters maintain that the transition was legitimate and driven by health realities, framing it as a lawful transfer of responsibility to a younger leader prepared to serve.