Aregbesola’s Lagos Loyalists Defect as Yusuf, Orelope-Adefulire Power Bloc Swells in Alimosho
Supporters of former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, are abandoning his political camp in Lagos State, particularly in the Alimosho area, as two new political figures — Hon. Bisi Yusuf and Hon. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire — emerge as dominant players in the region’s evolving power structure.
Yusuf, a former chairman of Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council and two-term member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, and Orelope-Adefulire, a former Deputy Governor and top aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, are reportedly consolidating influence in what used to be Aregbesola’s stronghold.
“They are now backed by higher-ups to take control of things in Alimosho,” a party insider familiar with the dynamics told this publication.
Once considered the political godfather of Alimosho and parts of Lagos, Aregbesola’s dominance stemmed from his stint as Lagos Commissioner for Works and his longstanding ties with President Bola Tinubu. His rise in Osun politics — including two terms as Governor — further entrenched his influence, allowing his loyalists to thrive in Lagos through key appointments and ticket endorsements.
“Even after things soured between him and Tinubu while he was serving as a Minister, he still managed to maintain some control based on his pedigree and past network,” said another party source.
However, his eventual departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) — following a deep political rift in Osun and a failed reconciliation — signaled a turning point. With his exit came a loss of resources and access, leaving his Lagos support structure vulnerable.
“Once Tinubu loyalists began actively sidelining Aregbesola’s men across Lagos, it became clear that those who didn’t align with the new order would be left behind,” another Alimosho political player observed.
The decisive blow reportedly came during the APC’s local government primaries on May 10.
According to insiders, the exercise was strategically designed to “clear the deck” of Aregbesola’s remaining allies. None of his loyalists won re-election tickets, and no new aspirants from his camp emerged as flag bearers.
“To save their political careers, many of them started switching camps. Some had already begun making moves before the primaries, but the outcome made the need more urgent — especially for those still hesitant,” a source close to the political realignment explained.
The shift marks a significant turning point in Lagos grassroots politics, particularly in Alimosho — once the nerve centre of Aregbesola’s Lagos influence. Political watchers say the developments underscore the rise of a new power bloc and the continued reconfiguration of party loyalty as Nigeria heads toward future elections. Read More
