A governorship aspirant in Lagos State, Olajide Adeniran has obtained the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to contest the state’s top seat.
This development signals his resolve to proceed with his ambition despite growing endorsements for the current Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat.
Adeniran’s move comes amid stakeholders, including the Presidency, the Governance Advisory Council, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, throwing their weight behind the Deputy Governor, as preferred successor.
In a statement posted on his social media platforms, Adeniran, popularly called Jandor, said his decision to pick the forms was guided by the party’s official position on direct primaries, which allows all aspirants to test their popularity among party members.
“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.
While acknowledging the endorsements by some party elders and leaders, the aspirant maintained that such decisions do not override the party’s constitutional processes.
“While I respect the decisions of some of our elders and party leaders endorsing aspirants of their choice, I am guided by the official position of the party on direct primaries as communicated to all party members and aspirants alike,” he added.
He, however, noted that he would abide by any alternative method that may be adopted by the party, including consensus arrangements as provided for in the Electoral Act 2022.
“Should the party come up with the second option of nominating candidates as enshrined in the Electoral Act, I will align and respect the supremacy of the party,” Adeniran said.
The governorship hopeful also emphasised the importance of public trust in leadership, stressing that it must be earned through sustained engagement and commitment to the common good.
“I am 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 noted.
Adeniran said his decision to remain in the race is rooted in a clear understanding of the challenges facing the state and a determination to contribute meaningfully to democratic development and good governance.
“My decision to proceed on this path is anchored in a clear understanding of the challenges before us, and an even clearer resolve to contribute meaningfully to deepening our democracy and advancing our shared aspirations for a better society,” he added.
He concluded by calling for collective action, urging party members and supporters to focus on the task ahead.
“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.”
Adeniran’s entry into the race is expected to test the strength of the party’s internal democratic processes in Lagos, particularly amid ongoing debates over consensus candidacy versus direct primaries.
