The Ibeju-Lekki Ancestral Coastal Communities have reaffirmed their loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC), while seeking a waiver on the Coastal Road project setback.
Epe Insights reports that the position was made public by community leaders led by Bale Chief Labiya Gbadebo Fatau amid concerns over political misrepresentation.
The clarification followed a viral video showing Rhodes Vivor Gbadebo of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at a community meeting in Eleko.
Leaders stated that Gbadebo was not formally invited to the gathering and only appeared through an aide.
Addressing residents, Bale Fatau and other traditional leaders distanced the coastal communities from any anti-party affiliations.
They reiterated their unwavering support for President Tinubu and the APC.
The leaders acknowledged the President’s role in initiating the Coastal Road project, describing it as a landmark infrastructure intervention.
However, they appealed for a waiver on the 150-metre setback requirement linked to the project.
According to them, the request is aimed at preserving the cultural and ancestral heritage of 53 coastal communities in Ibeju-Lekki.
The community stressed that their plea is not in opposition to development but seeks a balance between infrastructure growth and heritage protection.
Bale Fatau commended the Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, for engaging relevant authorities on the matter.
Delegates from the local government council assured residents that discussions are ongoing to address the concerns raised.
They expressed confidence that the Federal Government will consider the request in the interest of fairness and inclusivity.
Community representatives highlighted President Tinubu’s track record of listening to grassroots concerns.
They maintained that the Renewed Hope agenda should reflect both national progress and local identity preservation.
Residents said they remain optimistic about a positive resolution that protects ancestral lands.
The Ibeju-Lekki Ancestral Coastal Communities concluded by reaffirming their commitment to peaceful dialogue.
They expressed faith that the waiver request will receive due consideration while development continues across the axis.
