Abesan Estate residents chart fresh course, elect Shina Dare as President

Abesan Estate Residents Association (AERA) has elected a new set of executives to steer the affairs of the estate for the next administrative term.

The election, which was described by many residents as one of the most transparent and competitive in recent years, saw Mr. Shina Dare emerge as the new President, defeating his opponent, Mr. Ale Sunday, with 64 votes to 48.

In the same vein, Prince Babatunde Fapohunda was re-elected as Vice President, securing 62 votes to beat Prince Adekunle, who polled 49 votes.

The election, held at the estate’s community hall, drew a large turnout of residents, observers, and representatives of various interest groups within the estate.

Speaking shortly after his victory, the newly elected President, Mr. Shina Dare, expressed gratitude to the residents for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to serve with integrity, inclusiveness, and renewed energy.

“Today’s election is not just about me; it’s about the collective will of Abesan residents who desire progress, order, and transparency in our community affairs,” Dare said. “I want to assure everyone—both supporters and non-supporters—that this administration will work for all. Together, we will restore trust, promote unity, and ensure every resident feels the positive impact of good leadership.”

He also commended the outgoing executive for laying a solid foundation and promised to build on their achievements.

“We are inheriting both challenges and opportunities. Our focus will be on security, sanitation, and community development projects that improve the quality of life for every household in Abesan,” he added.

The re-elected Vice President, Prince Babatunde Fapohunda, described his return to office as a vote of confidence from the residents.

“The people have spoken clearly,” he said. “We’ll continue the developmental strides already started—especially in waste management, security collaboration, and youth empowerment within the estate.”

Fapohunda also praised the election committee and the residents for their orderly conduct, saying the process reflected the growing political maturity within Abesan.

Many residents commended the conduct of the election, describing it as peaceful, fair, and well-coordinated.

Mrs. Adetoun Ogundipe, a long-time resident, said the high turnout and active participation showed renewed community spirit.

“For the first time in a long while, residents were genuinely excited about the voting process. It shows people care deeply about who manages our collective welfare,” she said.

Another resident, Mr. John Ude, noted that the newly elected team should prioritize transparency and accountability.

“Elections are over now. It’s time to deliver. We expect open communication and practical improvements, especially on infrastructure and security,” he stated.

Other winners in the closely contested election include: Secretary: Diya Kayode (57 votes) defeated Onadeko Kazeem (52); Assistant Secretary: Oguntade Folasade (57) won against Taiwo Adeniyi (49); Financial Secretary: Meadows Adebayo (62) beat Olalekan Afolabi (46); Chief Technical Officer: Somoye Olaitan (56) narrowly defeated Ajagunna (55); Treasurer: Tella Magnus (66) beat Ayoola Adeyefa (46); Social Secretary: Ajayi Bolaji (59) won against Oluwalambe Bello (51); Education Officer: Oyin-Adejobi Morayo (59) defeated Lola Coker (55).

Others are: Assistant Chief Education Officer: Aso Simbiat (68) beat Ogunlana Theophilus David (41); Welfare Officer: Banjo Aina (59) triumphed over Yerokun Funmilayo (52); Public Relations Officer (PRO): Odunewu Olusegun (67) defeated Jagun Adunola (47); Assistant PRO: Ajayi Ezekiel (60) beat Lawson (46); Environmental Officer: Babatunde Shittu (69) defeated Comrade Akinola Joke (43); Chief Whip: Oresanya Rotimi (65) emerged winner over Shaniyi Olusola (45).

The Election Committee, chaired by Mr. Babatunde Showole, received widespread praise for conducting what many described as one of the most credible polls in AERA’s history.

“We made sure every candidate had a fair chance, and the voting process was transparent from start to finish,” Alade said. “The large turnout of residents shows that Abesan’s democratic spirit is alive and thriving.”