THE UNVEILING OF HON. TAIWO AYEDUN SHANANA FOR HOUSE OF REPS
The long anticipated unveiling of Hon. Taiwo Ayedun, popularly known as Shanana the Star Boy, reached its peak on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, drawing a massive crowd of party faithful, community stakeholders, and supporters across Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency I. The event marked a significant moment in the political landscape of the constituency, signaling the formal presentation of the aspirant to the electorate.
Proceedings commenced with an opening prayer led by Comrade Shodiya Kolawole, setting the tone for the gathering.
The event was anchored by Hon. Shoremekun Akorede, former Secretary to the Local Government, who formally welcomed attendees and acknowledged the presence of party leaders and grassroots mobilizers.
A roll call of prominent leaders and dignitaries in attendance was subsequently made. Among those introduced to the enthusiastic crowd were Elder Femi Ogunbiyi, Dr. Ariyo Akiode, Alhaji Mabinuori, Alhaji Lanre Malik, Alhaji Ismaila Akinderu, Hon. Moruf Emmanuel, Alhaji Akinpelu, Hon. Gbolade Sadiq, Hon. Onikewunla Muhammed, Hon. Taju Bello, Hon. Akeem Omolumo, Barrister Kayode Makinde, Alhaja Adegbola, Alhaja Adeyemo, Alhaji Jubril Adewuyi, Mrs. Oriyomi Adeoye, Hon. Samson Arewa, and Pastor Tunji Oshodi, among others.
The campaign structure was formally unveiled, with Dr. Ariyo Akiode announced as Campaign Chairman, Alhaji Lanre Malik as Deputy Chairman, Hon. Alaba Ogunleye as Secretary, and Hon. Onikewunla Muhammed as Director-General of the Campaign. Ward coordinators were also presented, reflecting the grassroots spread of the movement: Hon. Kazeem Fatoyinbo (Ogunoloko), Hon. Aregbe Nosiru (Oluyeye), Victoria Olubushe (Shogunle), Barrister Olabode Akinsanya (Ewu), Agbalaya Taiwo (Mafoluku), Mrs. Kafayat Adeoye (Afariogun), and Mrs. Omibiyi Adenike (Igbehinadun).
In his address, the Campaign Chairman, Dr. Ariyo Akiode, welcomed supporters and emphasized the importance of civic participation, urging constituents to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and maintain active party membership. He described the aspirant as a tested and capable leader whose previous assignments, though limited in scope, had far-reaching impacts across the state, adding that the time had come for him to be entrusted with greater responsibility.
Several speakers took turns to extol the virtues and political track record of Hon. Ayedun. Notably, groups such as the Women Wing of Progressive Youth Initiative (PYI), and non-indigene associations affirmed his reputation as a compassionate and inclusive leader.
Endorsements also came from political associates and stakeholders, including Hon. Oyetayo Oyeyemi from Kosofe and Hon. Monsuru Balogun from Mushin, who attested to his leadership qualities and accessibility.
As part of the event highlights, banners were distributed to various wards and support groups present, symbolizing unity and readiness for the political journey ahead.
Delivering his keynote remarks, Hon. Taiwo Ayedun expressed appreciation to party leaders and supporters for their overwhelming turnout. He traced his political trajectory from the era of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) to the present All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that he had paid his dues over the years. Drawing inspiration from the “Emilokan” philosophy popularized by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his first term declaration in Abeokuta, he asserted that the time had come for him to represent Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency I.
He further highlighted the strategic importance of the constituency, noting its hosting of both local and international airports, and stressed the need for deliberate representation that would translate such assets into tangible benefits for the people. He also referenced his experience working with notable political figures, including Hon. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai and former Lagos State Governor Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, stating that these engagements had enabled him to positively impact lives.
Over one thousand party faithful and loyal supporters attended the event.
The programme concluded with interfaith prayers offered by Alfa Akinbiyi Yusuf, Pastor Tunde Oshodi, and Mr. Tajudeen Ladega, reflecting the diverse religious harmony within the constituency.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Hon. Shoremekun Akorede, who expressed gratitude to all attendees for their support and commitment.
The unveiling event is widely seen as the formal takeoff of Hon. Taiwo Ayedun’s political bid, setting the stage for what promises to be an engaging campaign season in Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency I.