Controversy surrounding Sura Animashaun, a chairmanship candidate in the upcoming Epe Local Government election, continues to intensify as citizens and political observers question the integrity of the screening process conducted by the Department of State Services (DSS), the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC).
A formal petition alleging certificate forgery was submitted against Animashaun by one Mr. Adeyemi Adedamola through a reputable legal firm, Newton & Partners Solicitors.
The petition, addressed to relevant authorities, reportedly contains credible evidence suggesting that Animashaun submitted falsified academic documents during her nomination process.
Despite the gravity of these claims, both the APC screening committee and security agencies, particularly the DSS, appear to have turned a blind eye to the petition, clearing Animashaun to contest without a transparent investigation.
In addition, residents of Epe have expressed strong disappointment with the Chairman of LASIEC, Mr. Babatunde Ogala, for allowing a candidate under such serious allegations to pass through the screening process.
Many believe LASIEC, as the electoral umpire and custodian of electoral integrity, should have acted decisively to disqualify any candidate with questionable credentials.
They argue that Ogala failed to use his office as a “temple of justice” to prevent what they describe as “a mockery of the democratic process”.
This perceived institutional indifference has sparked outrage among concerned Epe residents, who see it as a betrayal of public trust and due process.
Observers argue that this situation undermines the credibility of the electoral process and sends a dangerous signal that certain individuals are above the law.
Critics also accuse the APC leadership of shielding Animashaun in what appears to be a blatant disregard for ethical governance and internal party accountability.
According to a concerned voter from Epe, Lateef Anidugbe, he lamented that;
“If such serious allegations can be swept under the carpet, what message are we sending to the next generation about leadership and integrity?”
The situation has also reignited conversations around past cases in Nigeria where public official, like former Speakers and governors have faced consequences for document falsification.
Citizens insist that Animashaun’s case must not be treated differently, calling for a thorough and impartial investigation, including legal consequences if the allegations are substantiated.
Epe, often hailed as the “Land of the Firsts”, holds a rich historical reputation in Lagos politics and beyond, as stakeholders urge the community to live up to that standard by insisting on transparency, accountability and fairness in its leadership selection.
Premier World News reports that the controversy remains a dominant topic in Epe-land, as the local government election draws closer, while the coming days will determine whether the institutions involved will rise to the occasion or allow politics to override justice.
