President Tinubu’s Constituency May Produce Lagos’ Youngest Lawmaker as 26-Year-Old Damilare Bashir Gains Momentum
The political landscape in Ikeja is gradually witnessing a generational shift as 26-year-old aspirant, Damilare Bashir, emerges as one of the youngest political figures seeking to represent Ikeja Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly ahead of the forthcoming party primaries.
Bashir, an indigene of Ward C the same political ward that produced Bola Ahmed Tinubu is beginning to attract significant attention among youths and grassroots stakeholders following a multimillion-naira solar renewable energy empowerment programme recently organised across the constituency.
The initiative, which focused on renewable energy support and youth empowerment, reportedly benefited several residents and small-scale entrepreneurs within Ikeja Constituency I. Political observers within the constituency say the project has not only elevated Bashir’s public profile but has also positioned him as one of the emerging youth-driven political voices aligned with the progressive ideals associated with President Tinubu’s political structure in Lagos.
Supporters and residents who spoke after the programme described the solar empowerment initiative as “uncommon” for a first-time aspirant, especially one largely funding such intervention personally. According to several youths in the constituency, the gesture strengthened their resolve to mobilise support for Bashir’s ambition.
Sources within the political circle disclosed that enthusiastic supporters and youth groups across the constituency were instrumental in purchasing the nomination form for the young aspirant, insisting that his community-driven approach and accessibility distinguished him from many established politicians.
Speaking shortly after his screening exercise, Bashir appealed to young party members and supporters to remain peaceful and focused ahead of the party primaries scheduled for May 21.
According to him, the movement being built around his aspiration is beyond politics but centered on the future of Ikeja youths and sustainable grassroots development.
“With God, we will get there. Ikeja deserves progressive representation that understands the people, especially the youths. I am ready to consolidate on the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and make our leader and representative, Hon. James Faleke, proud by ensuring that the younger generation has a voice in governance,” Bashir stated.
The aspirant also called for unity among key political stakeholders within Ikeja, including James Faleke, Tayo Ayinde, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, and local government leaders, urging them to place the growth of the constituency above political divisions.
Political analysts within Lagos APC circles believe Bashir’s growing popularity reflects a broader conversation around youth inclusion in governance, especially within strategic political strongholds like Ikeja, long regarded as one of the symbolic power bases of President Tinubu’s political dynasty.
Observers also point to Bashir’s close political mentorship and inspiration from figures such as Seyi Tinubu and Moyo Ogunlewe, both of whom have consistently championed youth participation, grassroots development, and social intervention initiatives across Lagos State.
From renewable energy empowerment to grassroots political mobilization, many now see Bashir’s movement as a reflection of the changing dynamics within Lagos politics where youth engagement, innovation, and strategic alignment with the ruling progressive structure may shape the next generation of leaders ahead of 2027.
