The Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos State, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, has raised a strong concern over the growing trend of established politicians endorsing their children, particularly sons, to run in the upcoming local government elections in Lagos.
Speaking during an interview on Tuesday, Olusi described the phenomenon as “alarming,” warning that it signals a dangerous shift in Nigeria’s political culture, where political office is increasingly seen as an inherited family business rather than a calling for service.
“This is part of what is wrong in this country that all of us are not addressing,” Olusi stated. “My father did not bring me into politics. In our time, your career was determined by your own interests or societal contribution—not because your parents were politicians.”
Olusi revealed that several prominent figures in Lagos politics, including former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola and former Vice Chairman Yemisi Coker, are currently backing their sons for political office in Lagos Island.
“In the Fourth Republic, this wasn’t so common. We were the ones who asked Awolowo’s son, Oluwole, to serve as a councillor, and even then, his father declined. Now, things have changed drastically,” Olusi reflected.
The GAC chairman linked this development to the perception that politics is seen as a route to personal wealth. “Nowadays, everyone wants their children to become Honourables and Chairmen because they see politics as a money-making venture. That’s where we’ve all gone wrong,” he asserted.
Olusi also pointed to the legacy of military rule, particularly under General Ibrahim Babangida’s administration, which he believes fostered a culture where power was given to individuals driven more by financial gain than by a genuine desire for public service.
He condemned the practice of aspiring politicians offering money for endorsements despite lacking a history of community leadership or civic engagement. “Anyone who wants to serve should have a clear track record—from school to their community,” Olusi remarked. “But these days, someone embezzles funds and the next advice they get is to run for office.”
Olusi called on the media to shine a spotlight on this issue, urging the public to recognize the long-term dangers posed by political dynasties, which he believes undermine the integrity of grassroots governance.
As tensions rise in Lagos politics, the GAC chairman is reportedly at odds with the Lagos Speaker, condemning his own son’s nomination for the upcoming local government elections. The situation has ignited further debate on the issue of political dynasties and their impact on the state’s governance.
