Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has sparked mixed reactions with the appointment of Basirat Damilola Marshall, daughter of popular Fuji musician KWAM1 (King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall), as a Senior Special Assistant (SSA).
The announcement, made on Thursday, comes without disclosed portfolio details for Ms. Basirat. While some Lagosians see the move as a potential recognition of youth and a nod to the cultural influence of KWAM1, others raise concerns about nepotism and a lack of transparency regarding qualifications.
This was according to a viral video of her father thanking the governor, and congratulatory messages posted on her Instagram page, @damimarshall_ on Thursday.
In the viral video, her father, KWAM1, while performing on stage at the coronation and birthday reception of Oba Sikirullah Apena on Thursday, thanked Sanwo-Olu for appointing his daughter into his cabinet.
The fuji singer noted that it was his daughter, Damilola, who asked him to publicly thank the governor for her appointment.
Until her appointment, Damilola was a principal partner at a law firm, Damilola Ayinde Marshal and Co.
Social media has been abuzz with commentary, with supporters highlighting Ms. Basirat’s entrepreneurial background and her potential to connect with young people. Critics, however, question the meritocratic basis for the appointment and call for clearer communication on selection criteria for such positions.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s office has yet to respond to requests for clarification on Ms. Basirat’s specific qualifications and the rationale behind her selection.
This development is likely to continue generating debate in the coming days, with Lagosians waiting to see how Ms. Basirat performs in her new role and whether the appointment signifies a broader shift in the selection process for government positions.
