Jandor picks Lagos APC gov nomination forms to challenge Hamzat

A former Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Lagos State, Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has purchased the Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms of the All Progressives Congress for the state governorship election.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Jandor said his decision aligns with the party’s current official position favouring direct primaries for selecting candidates.

“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.

Jandor acknowledged the endorsements of some party elders and leaders for other aspirants but stressed that he remains guided by the APC’s communicated position on direct primaries to all members and aspirants.

He, however, pledged to align with any alternative arrangement the party may adopt.

“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,” he added.

The former 2023 PDP governorship candidate in Lagos, who has since joined the APC, emphasised that genuine leadership requires more than rhetoric.

“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,” he said.

Jandor’s move comes amid growing activities in the Lagos APC ahead of the 2027 race, as the state’s Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, already secured the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The former governorship candidate noted that his decision to contest was driven by a desire to contribute to democratic development and national progress.

“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,” he added.

Jandor called for collective effort in achieving national goals, stressing the need for deliberate action.

“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,” he said.