RE: Misinterpretation of Baba Tajudeen Olusi’s Remarks in Punch Report – Setting the Record Straight

Press Statement

By Biodun Coker (FCCA, AFA)

Son of Yemisi Coker

RE: Misinterpretation of Baba Tajudeen Olusi’s Remarks in Punch Report – Setting the Record Straight

 

I wish to respond to article published by The Punch that referenced the remarks of Chief Tajudeen Olusi, Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos State, regarding the involvement of children of politicians in the forthcoming local government elections.

First and foremost, I hold Baba Olusi in the highest regard. His legacy, leadership, and commitment to Lagos State remain a guiding light for many of us in public service. However, it is important to state that I believe his words were misrepresented and selectively quoted by individuals who are uncomfortable with the growing support for my candidacy.

From reliable sources, I have it on good authority that the article was sponsored by those threatened by the popularity and substance of the campaign we have run. These are individuals who have not only failed to present a credible vision for the future, but who have also shied away from showing their own contributions or impact on the very local government they now claim to love.

Rather than face the people with ideas and solutions, they hide behind faceless publications and whisper campaigns. Let them come forward and show us their record—what have they built, improved, or transformed in our community?Leadership is not declared in backrooms or headlines; it is proven in the streets, the markets, the schools, and in the lives of the people.

Let me also ask: when did it become a sin for a child to look up to their parent? In business, religion, sports, and every other walk of life, we celebrate children who follow in the footsteps of their parents. Why then should politics be treated differently? There is no shame in legacy when it is rooted in service, values, and impact. I am proud of my father’s record in public service, just as I am committed to forging my own through integrity and hard work.

In any case, let it be known that my father, Yemisi Coker, has not held any political office since the start of the Fourth Republic in 1999. So the question must be asked: how then is Biodun Coker “feeling entitled”? There is no automatic pathway, no inheritance, and certainly no shortcut. What I bring to the table is not legacy—it is preparation, hard work, and a commitment to serve.

Let me be clear: I am not running because of my name—I am running because I believe in public service, and because I have prepared for this role through community engagement, leadership development, and transformative, innovative empowerment initiatives that speak directly to the needs of our people. This campaign is not about entitlement; it is about impact, capacity, and integrity.

We will continue to campaign with dignity, focus, and truth—and leave the politics of fear, distortion, and desperation to those bereft of ideas or the courage to lead.

While others resort to distractions, we are focused on resolving challenges, offering solutions, and listening to the people.

 

This is what leadership should be. That is what Lagos Island deserves.

 

Biodun Coker (FCCA, AFA)

Aspirant for Chairmanship

Lagos Island