Ex-APC Politician Daramola Joins Accord Party, Eyes 2015 Feat in Mushin
Grassroots politician Idowu Daramola has officially declared his intention to contest for the House of Representatives under the Accord Party in Mushin Constituency 1, Lagos State. This move marks a significant defection from his previous affiliation with the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he cited marginalisation as a primary reason for his departure.
Political Journey and Defection
Daramola, who has a long history in Nigerian politics, previously been associated with the Action Democratic Party (AD), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and the APC. In an interview with The Guardian, he detailed his political trajectory, emphasising his grassroots influence that dates back to 2003 when he first contested under ACN. He highlighted his role as a key mobiliser during elections, including leading over 5,000 delegates from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in the 2023 election.
He also leads a major political group in Lagos State, known as All4Bats, which actively campaigned for gubernatorial and presidential candidates in past elections. Daramola criticised the APC for lacking a "reward culture," stating that loyalists often go unrecognised despite years of service. "If you work for a party and see nothing in return, you are left with no choice but to move on," he explained.
Accord Party's Historical Significance
Daramola pointed to the Accord Party's entrenched presence in Mushin, noting that before the APC's dominance, the constituency was represented by an Accord member. He referenced the 2015 victory of Dauda Kako-Are, who defeated the incumbent APC candidate to become the House of Representatives member for Mushin I constituency. Daramola believes that with committed members and effective grassroots mobilisation, the Accord Party can challenge the ruling APC in upcoming elections.
"Accord is not a small party here. Before APC, the representative was an Accord person," he said, underscoring the party's historical success and potential for resurgence.
Developmental Agenda and Commitment
On his plans for the constituency, Daramola promised targeted interventions to improve living standards, focusing on transparency and community-focused projects. "People don't need millions; sometimes, N100,000 can solve their problems. Constituency funds must reach the grassroots," he asserted, highlighting his commitment to ensuring resources directly benefit residents.
Addressing concerns about potential absenteeism due to his business interests abroad, Daramola assured constituents of his dedication. "This is my home. I eat, sleep, and live here. I will never be an absentee representative," he stated, reaffirming his focus on local issues rather than national politics.
Party Support and Confidence
Accord Party's State Secretary, Charles Kolawole James, expressed confidence in Daramola's candidacy, citing his experience and grassroots engagement as key strengths. "There is nothing that is not possible with determination and commitment," James said, recalling past successes in Mushin despite limited resources and competition from larger parties.
James addressed financial constraints by emphasising the importance of the party's platform and organisational structure. "Platform is very important, and we are offering the platform," he noted, affirming the party's commitment to supporting Daramola's campaign and ensuring it gains momentum ahead of the elections.
Daramola concluded by expressing trust in the electorate, stating, "The electorate will decide, and I trust that they will see the difference we are bringing." This defection and candidacy signal a potential shift in the political landscape of Mushin Constituency 1, as Daramola aims to replicate the Accord Party's 2015 feat.
