"I Am Not Leveraging My Father’s Name": Biodun Coker Replies GAC Chair, Defends Chairmanship Ambition

By Dansu Peter  Amid rising tensions over alleged political dynasty-building in Lagos APC circles, Biodun Coker, a chairmanship aspirant fo...

By Dansu Peter 

Amid rising tensions over alleged political dynasty-building in Lagos APC circles, Biodun Coker, a chairmanship aspirant for Lagos Island Local Government, has pushed back against suggestions that he is riding on the coattails of his father’s name. In a strongly-worded statement, Coker defended his candidacy, insisting that his ambition is rooted in merit, not entitlement.

This comes on the heels of comments made by Prince Tajudeen Olusi, the Chairman of the influential Governance Advisory Council (GAC), who recently expressed concern over what he described as an “alarming” trend of political godfathers pushing their children into elective positions. In a report, Olusi specifically cited the sons of notable APC figures—including former Governor Babatunde Fashola and former Lagos Island Vice Chairman, Yemisi Coker, Biodun’s father.

Reacting to the report, Coker acknowledged Olusi’s stature in Lagos politics and described him as a respected elder whose contributions remain invaluable. However, he questioned the accuracy and intent of the report, alleging that his remarks were distorted and weaponized by political detractors.

Related Report: Lagos LG Polls: GAC Chair Prince Olusi Slams Fashola, Others for Backing Sons in Council Races

“I believe his words were misrepresented and selectively quoted by individuals who are uncomfortable with the growing support for my candidacy,” Coker said. “These are individuals who have failed to present a credible vision and are now resorting to whisper campaigns and faceless publications.”

He challenged critics to show their record of community service, asking pointedly: “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.”

Coker, a finance professional and community organizer, emphasized that while he is proud of his father’s service to Lagos, he is charting his own path in politics. He clarified that his father has held no political office since 1999 and insisted there is no question of political entitlement.

“Let me be clear: I am not running because of my name—I am running because I believe in public service,” he stated. “What I bring to the table is not legacy, but preparation, hard work, and a commitment to serve.”

He also took issue with the notion that children of politicians should be barred from aspiring to public office, pointing out that other sectors of society often celebrate generational continuity.

“In business, religion, and sports, we applaud children who follow in their parents’ footsteps. Why should politics be different—especially when the foundation is service, not self-interest?” he queried.

Coker concluded his statement with a call for dignity and issue-based campaigns, pledging to remain focused on development, grassroots engagement, and delivering solutions.

“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,” he said.

As the local government election season heats up in Lagos, Coker’s rebuttal underscores the generational tensions within the APC and shines a spotlight on the broader debate over political inheritance versus personal merit.