Former Lagos State governorship candidate, Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has formally entered the race for the 2027 Lagos governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Jandor, who was the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 governorship election, announced on Wednesday that he had purchased the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms of the APC, signaling his intention to contest for the party’s ticket.
His move marks a significant step in his political journey, coming months after his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress. The decision also sets the stage for a likely contest with the current Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, who is widely seen as a leading aspirant for the position.
In a statement released to the media, Jandor said his decision to pick the nomination forms was in line with the APC’s current position on the use of direct primaries to select candidates for elections. Direct primaries allow all registered members of the party to vote in choosing candidates, rather than limiting the process to a smaller group of delegates.
“In line with the official and current position of the party on direct primaries, I have taken the significant step of formally picking up my Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the forthcoming elections,” he stated.
He acknowledged that some party elders and leaders have already thrown their weight behind other aspirants. However, he stressed that his actions are guided by the party’s official guidelines, which encourage open participation by members.
Jandor also made it clear that he remains loyal to the party and would respect any alternative decision it may take regarding the mode of selecting candidates. He referred to provisions in the Electoral Act 2026, which allow political parties to adopt different methods, including consensus arrangements.
“Should the party come up with the second option of nominating party candidates as enshrined in the Electoral Act 2026, I will surely align and respect the supremacy of the party,” he added.
Jandor’s entry into the race comes at a time of increasing political activity within the Lagos APC as the state prepares for the next election cycle. Lagos, being Nigeria’s commercial hub and one of its most politically influential states, often attracts intense competition among aspirants.
The political landscape is already taking shape, with Obafemi Hamzat reportedly enjoying the backing of key figures within the party, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Such endorsements are seen as significant in the APC, where party structure and leadership influence play a major role in candidate selection.
Despite this, Jandor appears determined to test his popularity within the party and among Lagos voters. He emphasised that leadership requires more than words, noting that public trust must be earned through consistent engagement and dedication.
“I am also not unmindful of the fact that the trust of the people is neither given lightly nor sustained by rhetoric alone. It is earned through consistent engagement and an unshakable dedication to the common good,” he said.
Jandor first gained prominence in Lagos politics during the 2023 governorship election, where he ran under the PDP platform. Although he did not win, his campaign drew attention for its grassroots mobilisation and efforts to challenge the dominance of the APC in the state.
His defection to the APC was seen by some analysts as a strategic move aimed at increasing his chances in future elections. The APC has maintained a strong hold on Lagos State since 1999, making it the dominant political force in the state.
By joining the ruling party, Jandor now positions himself within the structure that has consistently produced Lagos governors. However, he will need to navigate internal party dynamics and compete with other aspirants who may have stronger ties to the party’s leadership.
In his statement, Jandor said his decision to contest was driven by a desire to contribute to democratic growth and national development. He called for collective effort in addressing the challenges facing the state and the country.
“My decision to proceed on this path is therefore anchored in a clear understanding of the challenges before us, and an even clearer resolve to contribute meaningfully to deepening our democracy and advance our shared aspirations for a better society,” he said.
He also urged party members and supporters to focus on action rather than symbolism, stressing the need for unity and hard work.
“Now, the moment for symbolism gives way to the imperative of action. It is time to do the work deliberately, diligently, and together to achieve the future we seek,” he added.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, more aspirants are expected to declare their intentions, setting the stage for what could be a competitive primary within the Lagos APC. For now, Jandor’s entry adds a new dimension to the race and signals the beginning of what promises to be an intense political contest in the state.