* Hon. Stella Osafile
The Pathfinder
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
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The Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Osafile Stella, has lamented what she described as persistent taunts and political pressure within the Assembly following her refusal to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Osafile, who was elected on the platform of the Labour Party (LP) and the only opposition lawmaker in the House, has since defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
She made the revelation while speaking with journalists after Monday’s plenary sitting of the Assembly.
According to her, the taunts have been ongoing but are not unexpected in a politically charged environment.
“Of course, there are taunts, but in politics you must develop a thick skin, Without that, it is difficult to move forward,” she said.
Defection driven by constituents
Addressing questions on whether the ADC has assured her of a return ticket ahead of the next general election, Osafile maintained that her political decisions are guided primarily by the wishes of her constituents rather than personal ambition.
“The ADC is well established. The structures are there. My people encouraged me to take this step. It was the constituents I represent who asked me to move to the ADC,” she explained.
She stressed that her move was not about seeking political comfort but about aligning with what she described as the political aspirations of her constituency.
On religion and governance
Speaking on the role of religion in governance, Osafile emphasised that Nigeria operates a secular system, noting that political participation transcends religious affiliations.
“Your personality will always reflect in how you play politics. After God’s authority comes government, so you cannot distance yourself from it,” she said.
No discrimination from Speaker – Osafile
Despite being the lone opposition voice for a period in a House dominated by the APC, Osafile dismissed suggestions that she had been subjected to institutional discrimination.
She commended the Speaker of the Assembly, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, describing him as professional and impartial.
“When I campaigned, I emphasised capacity, competence and character. I believe the Speaker understands his role and assigns responsibilities appropriately. I have not experienced any form of discrimination,” Stella said.
“Beyond party politics, he is committed to governance. He has given me the space to function and has consistently set aside party differences to uphold the Constitution,” she added.
Her remarks come amid ongoing political realignments in Lagos State, as parties position themselves ahead of the next electoral cycle.
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