Dr Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor on Wednesday indicated that he is not ready to step down his bid to become the next governor of Lagos State through the All Progressives Congress, APC platform, with the purchase of the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms of the party.
Adediran obtained the forms despite endorsement for the Lagos Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, by Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Governance Advisory Council and others as the party’s consensus candidate for the Lagos 2027 governorship election.
Adediran, the Lead Visioner of the Lagos4Lagos Movement said the step underscored his commitment to the party’s laid-down procedures and internal democratic principles
“This step reflects my disciplined adherence to the party’s established processes and my unwavering belief in the internal democratic mechanisms of the APC, the governorship aspirant was quoted as saying in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos by his Spokesperson, Mr Gbenga Ogunleye.
“I reiterate my full alignment with the party’s official position on the adoption of direct primaries for all elective offices.
“I am confident that this approach will further deepen participatory democracy, strengthen party cohesion, and give every member a sense of ownership in the emergence of candidates,” he said.
He also reaffirmed his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the party at both national and state levels.
“I reaffirm my profound respect, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to the National Leader of the APC and President Bola Tinubu.
“I equally extend my highest regards to the leadership of the party in Lagos State, its distinguished elders, and all recognised leaders whose guidance continues to shape the progressive ideals of the APC,” he said.
The governorship aspirant appreciated party stakeholders and supporters for their backing, while recognising the rights of others to support different aspirants.
“While expressing deep appreciation to party leaders and stakeholders who have graciously endorsed me as their preferred aspirant, I also acknowledge, with utmost respect, the legitimate rights of other leaders and stakeholders who have chosen to support other aspirants.
“Such diversity of opinion remains a hallmark of a vibrant and democratic political party,” he said.
Adediran further commended members of the JAGABAN–JANDOR 2027 Movement and other supporters for their contributions.
“I extend heartfelt gratitude to the leadership and members of the JAGABAN–JANDOR 2027 Movement, the coalition of young Lagos residents, and the broad spectrum of supporters who voluntarily contributed their ‘widow’s mite’ towards the procurement of the forms.
“I commend their remarkable sense of ownership, selfless sacrifice, and sustained confidence in my competence, capability, and capacity to advance and consolidate the progressive trajectory of Lagos State,” he said.
He assured party members and residents of Lagos State of his commitment to unity, inclusiveness and good governance.
“My aspiration remains anchored on unity, inclusiveness, and the continuous pursuit of excellence in governance under the banner of the APC,” Adediran said.
