In recent weeks, I have watched with concern as various allegations, accusations, and protests have been directed at Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State. As someone who has known him closely for more than two decades, I feel compelled to share my personal perspective on the man I have come to know over the years.
Public office holders are naturally subject to scrutiny, criticism, and accountability. Such scrutiny is healthy for democracy and should always be encouraged. However, it is equally important that public discourse remains balanced and that individuals are not defined solely by allegations or political narratives, particularly when there are other sides to the story that deserve consideration.
For over twenty years, I have interacted with Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi in various capacities, both within and outside political circles. Throughout this period, I have known him to be a man of discipline, integrity, consistency, and deep commitment to public service. His conduct has consistently reflected a sense of responsibility and accountability that has earned him the respect of many who have worked with him.
One of the qualities that has always distinguished him is his sense of fairness. In all my years of association with him, I have never witnessed him exhibit tribal prejudice, nepotism, or favoritism. Rather, he has consistently related with individuals based on merit, competence, loyalty, and character, regardless of ethnic background, family connections, or social status.
Pastor Ojelabi, as he is widely known, is also a remarkably straightforward individual. He is not known for political double-speak or telling people merely what they want to hear. Whether one agrees with his position or not, he has always been candid in expressing his views and convictions.
On numerous occasions, I have personally witnessed aspirants and party members approach him seeking support or intervention regarding political ambitions. His response has often remained consistent: “Go back to your leaders and stakeholders in your locality. They have a significant role in decisions concerning your aspirations.” This approach reflects his belief in consultation, grassroots participation, and respect for established party structures rather than the arbitrary exercise of personal influence.
Another enduring quality I have observed is his trustworthiness. In both public and private engagements, he has proven himself dependable, reliable, and committed to his responsibilities. Those who have worked closely with him over the years can attest to his willingness to stand by his word and fulfill his obligations, even under difficult circumstances.
Perhaps most importantly, Hon. Ojelabi has demonstrated a rare ability to place institutional interests above personal considerations. The Ojelabi I know would never seek political advantage for his biological children, immediate family members, or extended relatives through his position or influence. Throughout the years, he has consistently resisted the temptation to convert political office into a family enterprise. Instead, he has remained committed to creating opportunities for party faithful, loyal supporters, and deserving individuals based on merit, commitment, and service.
For this reason, I find it difficult to reconcile the character I have personally witnessed over the years with some of the portrayals being circulated today. Nevertheless, I also understand that politics is often accompanied by intense competition, heightened emotions, and conflicting interests, particularly when multiple aspirants seek the same position. Disappointments arising from political contests can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, grievances, and accusations.
This is precisely why established mechanisms for conflict resolution exist within political parties and democratic institutions. Allegations, concerns, and complaints deserve to be properly examined through appropriate channels where facts, evidence, and due process can prevail over speculation, emotion, and public pressure.
It is important to remember that accusations alone do not constitute guilt. Justice and fairness demand that claims be subjected to objective scrutiny and that all parties be afforded the opportunity to present their case. Public judgment should ultimately be guided by verified facts rather than assumptions, rumours, or the often-distorted narratives that accompany political disputes.
The recent allegations relating to financial inducement and the alleged perversion of internal democratic processes are, in my humble opinion, inconsistent with the character of the man I have known and respected for more than two decades. They stand in sharp contrast to the integrity, transparency, and principled conduct that I have personally witnessed throughout his years of public service and political leadership.
My purpose in writing is not to obstruct any legitimate process of accountability or to discourage scrutiny. Rather, it is to provide a personal testimony about Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi based on my own experiences and observations over a long period of association. The man I know is honest, fair-minded, non-tribal, non-nepotistic, straightforward, and deeply committed to the ideals of service and party development.
Ultimately, time, truth, evidence, and due process remain the most reliable arbiters of public judgment. While others are entitled to their opinions, my experience over the years has given me every reason to respect the character, leadership, and contributions of Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, a man whose wealth of political experience continues to serve both his party and the people of Lagos State.
As party members and stakeholders, we must remain committed to unity, dialogue, and the internal mechanisms designed to address grievances. Our collective energy should be directed towards strengthening our party, consolidating our achievements, and preparing for future electoral success rather than allowing temporary disagreements to undermine years of progress.
Let us, therefore, be guided by facts, fairness, and a shared commitment to the continued growth and stability of our great party.
Thank you.
Padonu Jerry is a resident of Lagos and a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).