As the new year unfolds, I extend goodwill to committed members of the Labour Party and the good people of Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency. This message is not merely ceremonial; it is a moment of truth, reflection, and firm resolve.
For some time now, I have closely observed the growing frustration among party members, stakeholders, and ordinary constituents who feel increasingly disconnected from the dividends of the mandate freely given in the 2023 general election.
Many have reached out in disappointment, questioning the direction of our political representation and the widening gap between electoral promises and lived realities. My silence during this period was not indifference; it was a deliberate pause to listen, assess, and prepare for a more principled intervention. That time has now come.
Let us be clear and factual, the Representatives both at the Federal House of Representatives and Lagos State House of Assembly have, so far, failed to sufficiently justify the trust and mandate generously bestowed upon them by the people in 2023.
Effective representation is not measured by media presence or sporadic benevolence, but by transparent stewardship of public resources, impactful constituency projects, and consistent legislative advocacy that improves the lives of constituents.
Regrettably, there has been no comprehensive or detailed public account of constituency allowances, intervention funds, or project allocations due to Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency. Instead, what the people have witnessed are cheap, tokenistic gestures paraded as achievements, activities more suited for public relations than for genuine development. Charity must never be substituted for accountability, and handouts must never replace structured, sustainable constituency impact.
Even more troubling is the repeated attempt to excuse underperformance by claiming victimisation by the leadership of their respective parliaments on the grounds of being an opposition lawmaker. This narrative is difficult to sustain, if not entirely unconvincing. Other opposition lawmakers from Lagos State and across Nigeria have continued to perform reasonably well, attract projects, influence policy, and maintain transparent engagement with their constituents despite political differences at the centre.
Representation is about capacity, strategy, and commitment, not excuses.
As we move steadily toward the 2027 general elections, the people of Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency must begin to ask harder questions and demand higher standards. Political representation must return to its core purpose: service, accountability, and results. The era of political deception, self-pity narratives, and symbolic benevolence must give way to measurable performance and honest leadership.
Within the Labour Party, this moment also calls for deep political reorientation. We must recommit ourselves to building a party culture that prioritises integrity, competence, transparency, and people-centered leadership. Silence in the face of underperformance is no longer an option. Loyalty to party ideals must never override loyalty to the people.
Peace will be pursued, but not at the expense of accountability. Engagement will be encouraged, but not without truth. Political structures will be strengthened, not to protect individuals, but to defend the collective interest of the people. The Labour Party must stand as a platform of credibility, not a shield for mediocrity.
This new year marks a defining turning point. Those genuinely committed to reform, responsible governance, and the authentic ideals of the Labour movement will find purpose and direction in this journey. Those who mistake public office for personal entitlement must be reminded that political power ultimately belongs to the people.
The people of Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency deserve transparent, effective, and courageous representation. Together, we will insist on better leadership, restore confidence in progressive politics, and reposition the Labour Party for a principled, people-driven, and victorious outing in 2027. The task ahead is demanding, but it is unavoidable.
Signed:
Ebele Belmon Nwuzor
Immediate Past Chairman,
Labour Party,
Amuwo Odofin LGA / Oriade LCDA