Jandor picks Lagos APC gov nomination forms to challenge Hamzat

The political landscape in Lagos State is heating up as Olajide Adediran, widely recognized as Jandor, makes a significant move by purchasing the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship nomination forms. This development marks a notable shift for the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, signaling a potential realignment within the state's political power blocs ahead of the 2027 elections.

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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.

Jandor's stated rationale for joining the APC and seeking its nomination centers on the party's current official position favoring direct primaries. This strategic alignment suggests a keen understanding of the internal dynamics of the ruling party and an attempt to position himself favorably within its structure. While acknowledging the endorsements other aspirants have received, Jandor emphasizes his adherence to the party's communicated stance on candidate selection, while also expressing willingness to align with any alternative arrangements the party might adopt.

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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.

This move by Jandor is particularly interesting in the context of Lagos politics, where party loyalty and strategic maneuvering often dictate electoral success. The fact that he is seeking to challenge an incumbent, who already has significant backing from national and state leadership, highlights the competitive nature of Lagos politics. From a Nigerian perspective, such cross-party movements and the pursuit of nominations within the dominant party are common strategies employed by politicians seeking to remain relevant and influential.

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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.

Furthermore, Jandor's emphasis on "genuine leadership" requiring more than rhetoric and his call for "deliberate action" to achieve shared aspirations resonate with the public's desire for effective governance. His decision to contest is framed not just as a personal ambition but as a contribution to democratic development and national progress. This narrative is crucial in Nigerian politics, where politicians often seek to connect with voters on the basis of their commitment to improving the lives of citizens and strengthening the democratic process.

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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.