Traditional rulers comprising bales in the Agege Local Government Area of Lagos State have endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates for Agege Constituencies I and II, Messrs Oluwagbenga Abiola and Sakiru Akindele.

The endorsement was contained in a statement by the campaign organisations of the candidates on Friday in Lagos.

The baales said their decision was based on the candidates’ track records and commitment to grassroots development.

The baales are traditional grassroots leaders and community chieftains in Yoruba culture, subordinate to a crowned monarch or oba.

In Lagos State, baales serve as the closest traditional authority to local neighbourhoods.

Mr Abiola, popularly known as Agbelebu, who is seeking to represent Agege Constituency I, described the endorsement as a demonstration of confidence in their candidacies.

He said the endorsement represented more than political support, describing it as an expression of trust from traditional leaders.

Also, Mr Abiola said traditional rulers remained critical to community development because of their wisdom and strong grassroots connections.

He said the endorsement had strengthened his resolve to pursue people-centred representation.

According to him, their vision is built around unity, development, opportunity and purposeful representation.

He stated, “Agege deserves representatives who will listen, engage stakeholders, respect traditional institutions and work tirelessly for the people.”

Mr Abiola described the endorsement as a greater call to service and pledged not to disappoint the traditional rulers.

He thanked the baales for their confidence and assured them purposeful representation if elected. (NAN)