Former Lagos lawmaker Hon. Olowo Rotimi Emmanuel formally declared his intention to run for the Somolu Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd to the Baptist Academy Field in Obanikoro.
Despite what he described as short notice and threats from certain quarters that attendance would come at a cost, residents turned out in their numbers, freely, boldly and resolutely.
“No one was coerced. No one was rented,” Olowo declared. “What we are witnessing here today is not political theatre, it is a relationship built on trust, tested over time, and strengthened by genuine love for the people.”
Addressing the gathering, Olowo identified himself as “a street boy with street credibility,” adding that he had walked the streets of Somolu, lived the realities of its people and shared in their struggles.
“I did not merely sympathize, I chose to empathize,” he said, citing the German philosopher Max Weber’s work on perception and meaning. “That philosophy has guided my life: to see through your eyes, to feel your burdens, and to give meaning to your realities through service.”
The former lawmaker, who represented Somolu Constituency I at the Lagos State House of Assembly, pointed to a string of infrastructural projects as proof of his record rather than mere promises.
These included roads such as Abiodun Street, Sobande Street in Akoka, Aina Street in Bariga, Igi-Olugbin/Pedro Road, Ikija Street, Olaosebikan Street, Oluwalogbon Street, Ogunbadejo Street, Salami Street, Onabanjo Street, Eyiowunawi Street, Akanni Street, Okulaja Street, Moshalashi Street, Osanyinpeju Street in Akoka, Dailey Street, Akinrinlo Street, and the Bajulaiye Compound, as well as the Fadeyi Pedestrian Bridge.
Beyond infrastructure, Olowo said he invested in people, supporting youths, empowering entrepreneurs, providing grants to small and medium-scale businesses, and introducing a free ride to school initiative which, he noted with pride, has continued nearly three years after he left office.
“Because true leadership is not about occupying office, it is about sustaining impact,” he said.
Describing himself as a “4-star general” not by rank but by record of 16 years of impactful legislative service, Olowo outlined the three cardinal responsibilities of representation: raising motions on issues affecting the people, enacting progressive laws and amending obsolete ones, and holding the executive accountable through oversight.
“When a child excels at one level, he is promoted to the next,” he said. “Having served meritoriously at the state level, I am prepared, by experience, by capacity, and by the grace of God, to serve you at the federal level.”
He concluded with a quote from William Shakespeare: “If you love me, I will be in your heart. If you hate me, I will be in your mind. Either way, I remain committed to you.”
“With God on our side, Somolu Federal Constituency will experience a new phase, greater opportunities, stronger representation, and a better quality of life for all,” Olowo said. “By the grace of God, come 2027, I will be representing you in Abuja.”
