By: Motolani Oyedeji Esq.
As the race towards the 2027 Lagos State House of Assembly election gradually gathers momentum, Surulere Constituency (I) is shaping up to be one of the most keenly contested battlegrounds.
With a crowded field of aspirants, jostling for attention, experience, credibility, and grassroots connection have become the defining metrics for serious contenders.
Among the names gaining increasing traction is Barr. Barakat Olawunmi Bakare.
Barr. Bakare is a figure whose profile reflects both political depth and administrative competence.
Born on March 10, 1986, in Surulere Local Government Area of Lagos State, Barr. Bakare embodies a blend of heritage and modernity.
A proud Lagosian with roots in the Oshodi royal lineage, as well as the Olorogun Adodo and Onisemo families, her background reflects a strong cultural and community foundation, an attribute often prized in grassroots politics.
Her academic journey reinforces her intellectual preparedness for public office.
From Mainland Preparatory Private School in Surulere to Anglican Secondary School and Lagos State Model College, Kankon, her early education was firmly rooted in Lagos.
She later advanced to the College of North East London for her A-levels before earning both her LLB and LLM in International Commercial Law from the University of Bedfordshire in the United Kingdom.
Her call to the Nigerian Bar after attending the Nigerian Law School completed a rigorous legal training that continues to shape her approach to governance.
However, beyond pedigree and education, what truly distinguishes Barr. Bakare is her demonstrable record in public service.
Her political journey gained prominence in 2017 when she emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) councillorship candidate for Akinhami-Cole Ward (Ward E1), Surulere.
Her subsequent election and re-election in 2021 speaks volumes about the trust reposed in her by the electorate.
As Leader of the Surulere Legislative Assembly, a position she assumed in 2018 and retained after her re-election, Barr. Bakare established herself as a proactive lawmaker.
Notably, she facilitated the passage of over 27 bye-laws aimed at strengthening local governance, improving internally generated revenue, and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
This legislative productivity is complemented by tangible grassroots initiatives, including street lighting projects, financial support for over 150 residents, empowerment programs for women, and welfare interventions for senior citizens and children.
Her response during critical moments, such as the COVID-19 lockdown where she coordinated food relief distribution, further underscores a leadership style rooted in empathy and responsiveness.
Barr. Bakare administrative competence was further tested and proven during her tenure as Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Housing.
In this role, she contributed significantly to both local and statewide housing initiatives.
From facilitating the completion of a 90-unit housing scheme in Eric Moore to overseeing projects that generated employment opportunities and improved housing access across Lagos, her impact extended beyond Surulere.
Equally notable is her role as a political mobilizer and strategist within the APC. As TGSEE Campaign Secretary during the 2023 general elections, she was part of the structure that delivered electoral victories for key party figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, amongst others.
Her involvement in logistics coordination and strategic communications further highlights her versatility within the political space.
Yet, perhaps the most compelling aspect of Barr. Bakare candidacy is her consistent advocacy for inclusiveness.
As a woman who has risen through the ranks of local governance, she represents a growing demand for gender balance and youth participation in leadership.
Her track record suggests not just symbolic representation but active empowerment through policy and community engagement.
In a race that will likely feature seasoned politicians and emerging voices alike, Barr. Barakat Bakare appeal lies in her combination of grassroots experience, legislative effectiveness, administrative exposure, and party loyalty.
Her portfolio of over 30 documented accomplishments across different spheres of public service provides a measurable benchmark, one that sets her apart in a field where rhetoric often outweighs results.
As Surulere Constituency I prepares for 2027, the question before voters may not simply be who is contesting but who has consistently delivered.
In that conversation, Barr. Barakat Olawunmi Bakare has positioned herself not just as a participant but as a proven contender.
Motolani Oyedeji Esq
Managing Partner, Danielle Chambers
Writes from Lagos
