Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, Member of the House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, has once again reinforced his commitment to grassroots development with the July edition of his flagship welfare program, Apo Aanu (“Bag of Mercy”), while also rallying key political stakeholders in preparation for the forthcoming local government elections.
This comes as a remarkable demonstration of both compassionate governance and strategic political leadership.
Held at his Constituency Office along Igbogbo Road in Ikorodu on the 5th of July 2025, the Apo Aanu initiative witnessed hundreds of residents from across the Ikorodu Division—spanning Ikorodu Local Government and its five Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs): Ikorodu North, Ikorodu West, Imota, Ijede, and Igbogbo/Baiyeku—benefit from essential food supplies such as rice, beans, garri, and other staples.
Uniquely inclusive, the welfare program catered to a broad spectrum of the vulnerable population including persons living with disabilities (deaf, mute, and those with dwarfism), the elderly, youth groups, artisans, and religious organizations.
Several first-time beneficiaries expressed heartfelt appreciation for the timely support amid the country’s prevailing economic challenges.
One of the beneficiaries, Ismail Olarewaju, said, “It is a big privilege to benefit from this welfare package, especially as a first-timer. It means a lot.”
Another recipient, Adeshola Oluwawemimo, stated, “This package will go a long way for me and my family. At least with this, we will be able to feed for some time.”
The initiative, long established as a lifeline for many in Ikorodu, has continued to evolve as a symbol of empathy and practical support for those grappling with food insecurity.
Rep. Benson’s silent yet impactful style of leadership ensures that residents not only receive relief but also feel seen and valued.
In tandem with the humanitarian outreach, Rep. Benson convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting subsequently, at the same constituency office, to galvanize party faithful and prepare for the 2025 local government elections.
Attendees at the meeting included prominent political and community leaders such as Dr Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development; R.I. Jinadu; Wonuola Oshinowo, Women Leader of Lagos East Senatorial District; party chairmen Taiwo Orenuga (Igbogbo) and Otunba Olasunkanmi Tijani (Ikorodu Division); and Mayor Deen Sanwo-Ola, Director-General of iCare Foundation. Local government chairpersons Bldr. Sesan Daini (Igbogbo/Baiyeku), Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba (Ijede), and Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olarewaju (Ikorodu West) also participated, alongside several aspirants across various LCDAs.
The Federal Lawmaker used the engagement to officially declare his support for the APC Chairmanship Candidates in Ikorodu Division.
During the strategic session, Rep. Benson urged all APC members to unite, collaborate, and intensify campaign efforts across all 30 Wards in Ikorodu. Emphasizing grassroots engagement, he stated:
“Every election is local. Don’t take anything for granted. Go and work; go and engage. Go and touch everyone that needs to be reached. Let the people see and know the candidates they want to vote for.”
He further relayed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s charge to APC stakeholders to ensure sweeping victories in all 57 councils in Lagos State, calling the upcoming elections a test of party strength and people-centred governance.
R.I. Jinadu applauded Rep. Benson for his sustained focus on infrastructure development, social welfare, and youth empowerment, calling him a model of responsive leadership.
Echoing this sentiment, Bldr. Sesan Daini stressed the importance of voter participation and warned against political apathy that could derail community progress.
Otunba Olasunkanmi Tijani reinforced the need for performance-oriented leadership, reminding aspirants that public office is not a reward but a responsibility.
He also announced a mega campaign rally scheduled to kick off the following Monday, aimed at energizing supporters and educating voters on the APC’s vision.
Together, the welfare outreach and political engagement mark a pivotal moment in Rep. Benson’s representation—balancing empathy with strategy and relief with results.
As the countdown to the council elections begins, Ikorodu Division stands energized by a combination of compassionate service delivery and committed political mobilization, with Rep. Babajimi Benson firmly at the helm.
INN-HOUSE☆ 