2019 Fed House of Reps race: why I step down for Anibaba – Bamigbetan
By Abolaji Adebayo
The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Kehinde Bamigbetan has disclosed the reason for cutting short his ambition to run for the Federal House of Representatives in 2019, stepping down for Hon. Habeeb Anibaba.
Bamigbetan had, in April 2018, declared his intention to contest for the seat belonging to Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II at the Federal House of representatives during 2019 general elections.
According to him, his decision to step down is a blessing to his constituency as it translates to getting more people involved in politics rather than substituting one person for numerous positions.
With this decision as he said, he has created avenue for another person from his constituency to bring dividend of democracy from the federal level to the people of the community while he (Bamigbetan) remains in the cabinet of Lagos State Government.
He stated, “Politics involves strategy for power. Sometimes, ambition can becloud that strategy. My decision to stay on as a member of the Lagos State Executive Committee rather than pursue the ticket for the Federal House of Representatives is one development that has attracted some analysis.
“The idea is to add rather than substitute one position with another. That addition, will be executed when Mr. Habeeb Anibaba is elected as the Member, House of Representatives, Oshodi-isolo Constituency II.”
Meanwhile, Bamigbetan commended the members of The Mandate Movement (TMM) for demonstrating their commitment as they raised N4.1million spontaneously at the meeting where Anibaba was declared as the group’s aspirant for the MHR race.
He therefore appealed to the constituents of Oshodi-Isolo to vote for Anibaba in 2019, saying that would increase their chances of benefiting and enjoying dividends of democracy from the state and the federal level.
The stakeholders have hailed Bamigbetan on his decision to allow more involvement in politics, describing him as a leader with good vision for the new generations.
Speaking on the gesture, the secretary to the Local Government, Ejigbo LCDA, Hon. Paul Omatseye Fregene said the decision was a laudable one which would pave way for youths participation in politics.
He said, “My leader and brother sir, we hail your decision that is in line with new FG policy of not too young to run…. Also the decision supports the youths’ clamour for participation in governance and I expect all youths to embrace this gesture from a great leader and mentor.”