Lagos 2027: The candidate who actually prepared

BY ‘SEUN SOYINKA

As Lagos prepares for its next chapter, Jandor’s readiness and statewide engagement offer the APC a forward-looking option

With the 2027 governorship election approaching, Lagos State stands on the threshold of another important political transition. The All Progressives Congress (APC), having provided stable governance across multiple administrations, now carries the responsibility of identifying a successor who will sustain the state’s growth trajectory and deepen the developmental gains already established.

In that context, the entry of Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran – Jandor, into the race has opened a meaningful conversation about preparedness, vision, and long-term commitment to Lagos politics.

A Candidate Who Has Demonstrated Consistent Readiness

At a time when the Lagos APC is in dire need of a positive turnaround with regards to recorded dwindling winning numbers, a candidate like Jandor, who single-handedly ran a vibrant campaign without the backing of an existing political structure such ss that of Lagos APC, truly comes to mind.

Jandor is not new to statewide political engagements. His 2023 governorship campaign exposed him to the realities of Lagos’ 377 wards, its multicultural communities, and the depth of work required to govern a highly dynamic state.

Since returning to the APC, he has taken responsibility for strengthening the party from the ground up. His efforts include:

• Engaging grassroots structures at ward level
• Deploying self-funded mobilisers during the 2025 local government elections
• Establishing a network of 900 coordinators ahead of the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all Lagos APC candidates for the 2027 election
• Constantly supporting party members with personal resources despite holding no public office

These are markers of intention – not improvisation.

Guidance from the Senate President

During the commissioning of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in May 2025, Senate President Godswill Akpabio offered a valuable reflection on leadership succession nationwide. He warned against handing power to those “who never wanted power.”

His counsel emphasised the importance of entrusting responsibility to individuals who have prepared themselves, not those who only step forward when invited. Leaders lacking genuine ambition for the office they hold rarely summon the courage necessary for transformative governance.

This was not a criticism of any administration; rather, it was a call to build continuity on the foundation of readiness and true loyalty as against disguised humility.

Jandor’s declaration firmly aligns with this view. His ambition is not reactive, it is the product of years of engagement, planning, and understanding the complexities of Lagos governance.

A Unifier With Broad Appeal

Jandor has also demonstrated the ability to interact meaningfully with diverse communities. From Igbo leaders to other non-Yoruba blocs, recognising that Lagos is, above all, a state defined by inclusion. His philanthropic activities, youth empowerment efforts, and community outreach initiatives have earned him goodwill that transcends party and ethnic boundaries.

Sustaining the APC Legacy

Lagos has benefited from consistency in policy direction, infrastructure development, and strategic leadership under the APC. Maintaining this trajectory requires a successor who understands the party’s ethos, respects its heritage, and brings fresh energy to the task. Jandor offers the advantage of practical electoral experience, a wide grassroots presence and a clear, articulated ambition for Lagos

These qualities make him a strong asset in the party’s search for a forward-looking candidate.

A Future-Focused Choice

The question before the APC is not about replacing what is working, it is about strengthening it. Lagos deserves a leader who steps into the arena with preparation, not hesitation, with clear ambition, not uncertainty.

Jandor represents a continuation of the state’s progress, built on readiness, statewide engagement, and a vision shaped by experience.

‘Seun Soyinka writes from Lagos