Lagos:Mr. Gbenga Abiola, known as Agbelebu and an APC candidate for the Lagos State House of Assembly in the 2027 elections, has called for an enhanced role for traditional institutions in grassroots governance.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Abiola, who is campaigning to represent Agege Constituency 01, emphasized that traditional institutions should be recognized as active partners in community development rather than mere ceremonial entities. He proposed the establishment of Information and Feedback Boxes in the palaces of all Baales within the constituency to facilitate this role.
Abiola highlighted the strategic position of Baales, citing their proximity to residents as crucial for identifying community needs and communicating them effectively to government officials and representatives. He asserted that effective representation requires ongoing engagement with constituents beyond just election campaigns.
He explained that these Information and Feedback Boxes would offer residents a straightforward way to express concerns, suggestions, and ideas, particularly benefiting those without direct access to government offices. The insights gained from these submissions would help identify recurring community challenges and priorities.
The APC candidate also stressed that representation must focus on listening to and addressing the concerns of constituents. He proposed that traditional institutions could strengthen communication between communities and government, given the trust residents already place in traditional leaders.
Abiola’s initiative is part of his broader AGBELEBU Agenda, which prioritizes service and impactful representation in governance. He aims to ensure that all community voices are heard, and that representatives remain accessible and responsive to constituent needs, advocating for collaboration among traditional institutions, residents, elected officials, and government agencies to achieve effective grassroots governance.