Adekunle Sunday Shobola “Elele”: The Grassroots Catalyst Needed To Transform Ifako-Ijaiye Community
Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area, one of the largest and most densely populated LGAs in Lagos State and Nigeria, stands at a critical point in its political and developmental journey.
With a population of over 1 million residents, diverse communities, and growing socio-economic challenges, the LGA requires visionary, experienced, and grassroots-driven leadership to unlock its full potential.
For the dividends of democracy to be felt in every street, market, and household, constituents agree that Ifako-Ijaiye needs a formidable, dedicated, and tested representative — someone who understands the people, speaks their language, and walks with them.
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THE SEARCH FOR DEPENDABLE LEADERSHIP
This informed the decision by concerned community leaders and stakeholders to set up a fact-finding Machinary. The mandate was clear: to identify a dependable, reliable, and accessible leader who can bridge the gap between government and the people, and who has a proven record of service.
After months of consultations, town hall engagements, and background checks across wards in Ifako and Ijaiye, the committee came to one conclusion. The name that kept coming up from youth groups, market women, artisans, religious leaders, and community elders was Mr. Adekunle Sunday Shobola, popularly and fondly called “Elele.”
WHO IS “ELELE”?
Adekunle Sunday Shobola better known as Elele is not new to the streets of Ifako-Ijaiye. For over two decades, he has been a visible grassroots mobilizer, democrat, philanthropist, and community peace-maker.
“Elele” is a Yoruba name that conlates to “one who comes to the aid of others.” And that is exactly what constituents say he has been doing.
According to the fact-finding report, Elele is described as:
A Philanthropist:
Known for paying school fees, supporting widows, and providing medical assistance to the less privileged without regard for party lines.
A Community Peace-maker:
Instrumental in resolving community disputes, youth clashes, and market crises through dialogue and mediation.
A Grassroots Mobilizer:
A man who attends naming ceremonies, funerals, and community meetings. He is accessible — his door is open to anyone who comes his way, regardless of tribe, religion, or political affiliation.
A youth leader in Ijaiye said: _“We don’t see Elele only during elections. We see him every day. When there is trouble in the community, he is there. When a student needs help, he responds. That is leadership.”
WHY IFAKO-IJAIYE NEEDS HIM NOW
Ifako-Ijaiye faces unique challenges: Education development, drainage and flooding, youth unemployment, inadequate healthcare facilities, and the need for more inclusive governance.
Stakeholders believe these challenges require a leader who is not a “visitor” to the community, but one who has lived the realities with the people.
Experience:
Elele understands the structure of local government and how to interface with state and federal agencies to attract projects.
Democratic Values:
As a democrat, he believes in consultation, inclusion, and accountability. He has consistently advocated for peaceful elections and issue-based politics.
Track Record:
Over the years, he has facilitated empowerment programs for artisans, skills acquisition for women, and scholarship support for students.
A market leader in Ifako noted: “Politics should be about service. Elele has been serving us without a title. Imagine what he can do with the mandate of the people.”
THE PATH TO TRANSFORMATION
Community leaders say that electing a grassroots man like Adekunle Sunday Shobola will be the catalyst needed to transform Ifako-Ijaiye. The vision, according to stakeholders, includes:
Youth and Women Empowerment
Expanding vocational training, providing startup grants, and creating platforms for young entrepreneurs.
Healthcare and Education:
Supporting primary health centers and advocating for more classroom blocks and learning materials.
Security and Peace
Strengthening community policing and dialogue platforms to sustain the peace Ifako-Ijaiye is known for.
The belief is that a representative who is already trusted at the grassroots will find it easier to mobilize the people for government programs and also hold government accountable on their behalf.
THE PEOPLE’S CALL
As the political space begins to shape up ahead of future elections, there is a growing call across the 11 wards of Ifako-Ijaiye for Elele to answer the call to serve.
“This is not about party. This is about the people,” said a community elder.
“We need someone who has been tested and trusted. Someone who will not abandon us after election. Elele fits that description.”
The fact-finding committee concluded that the time has come for Ifako-Ijaiye to choose competence over popularity, service over rhetoric, and grassroots connection over political godfatherism.
REMARK
Ifako-Ijaiye deserves leadership that is present, practical, and people-centered. In Adekunle Sunday Shobola “Elele,” constituents say they have found a grassroots politician and democrat with the heart to serve, the experience to deliver, and the humility to listen.
As the conversation around the future of Ifako-Ijaiye continues, one message is clear from the streets: Elele is the catalyst needed to transform and represent Ifako-Ijaiye1 at the Lagos State House of Assembly under the ADC Political Platform Come 2027 General Election.
Watch out for Part 2
