A Lagos State governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has withdrawn from the 2027 race, citing the need to preserve party unity and cohesion.
Adediran, who recently obtained the party’s Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, announced his withdrawal in a statement on Thursday, following the endorsement of the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadiri Hamzat, by key party leaders.
He said the decision was taken after careful consideration of prevailing political realities within the party and in alignment with the directive of the party’s national leadership.
“Leadership demands the capacity to make difficult but necessary decisions that prioritise collective interest above personal ambition,” he stated.
According to him, his initial decision to join the race was driven by a desire to contribute to the development of the state, but recent developments necessitated a strategic realignment.
Adediran pledged loyalty to the party and reaffirmed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as the national leader of the party.
“I remain a loyal and committed member of the APC and fully align myself with the position and direction of Mr. President regarding the Lagos State gubernatorial process,” he said.
The former aspirant emphasised that his withdrawal was not due to lack of capacity, but a deliberate move to strengthen party unity and sustain its political dominance in the state.
He also appreciated members of the Lagos4Lagos Movement for their support, noting that the group’s vision transcends individual ambition and remains focused on equity, inclusion, and better governance.
“This movement has never been about one individual; it has always been about a cause,” he said.
Adediran urged his supporters and stakeholders across the state to remain calm and committed to the party’s collective interest, stressing the need for consolidation ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Politics is a continuum. Today’s decision is part of a larger journey of service,” he added.
