Laja Adeoye, the governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Lagos State, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain professional and impartial ahead of the 2027 governorship election. He made this appeal on Wednesday, May 20, during his formal declaration of candidacy at Ward F5, Ejigbo, in the Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area.
Adeoye Urges Neutrality from INEC, Judiciary, and Security Agencies
Adeoye urged the electoral commission, the judiciary, and security agencies to discharge their responsibilities without bias during the election period. He emphasized that a transparent electoral process would strengthen public confidence in democracy and reflect the true choice of voters.
Confidence in Winning a Free and Fair Election
Adeoye expressed confidence in his chances in the governorship race, stating that he believes Lagos residents will support him if the election is conducted fairly. "There is no doubt about it," he said, adding that Lagos residents are yearning for fresh leadership and new ideas ahead of the 2027 elections.
The former PDP governorship aspirant, who was loyal to the faction backed by Governor Seyi Makinde before adopting APM as the consensus candidate, noted that Lagos residents have grown tired of the ruling APC administration since 1999. "The truth is that Lagos residents are tired. They have seen the ideas and style of governance since 1999, and they are yearning for something new. The people want fresh ideas, fresh faces, fresh leadership, and a fresh governor. That is what I represent. That is why I have come out to serve. I promise the good people of Lagos State that I will be a good and responsible leader," he said.
Promises of Accountable Governance
Adeoye promised to run an accountable and people-oriented administration if elected governor in the 2027 election. "I will serve with sincerity, compassion, and accountability. I will not be a detached or inaccessible governor; I will be a governor for the people at all times. I am confident that the people of Lagos State will vote overwhelmingly for me because they desire genuine change and leadership that truly prioritizes their welfare," he said.
The governorship hopeful expressed excitement over the turnout of PDP and APM leaders at the declaration event, stating that the support demonstrated his deep connection to the grassroots and local communities. "I am a true son of the soil. Through my Ijebu lineage, I have roots in Ikorodu and Epe, while through my Awori heritage, Isolo is where I belong. From this interaction and massive support today, it is obvious that I am not a stranger here," he added.
Explanation of PDP-APM Alliance
Adeoye explained that the PDP-APM alliance became necessary following internal disputes within the PDP and efforts to weaken opposition politics nationally. According to him, all PDP aspirants under the Governor Makinde-backed faction will contest the 2027 elections on the APM platform. "Both PDP and APM have become siblings. We have become a formidable platform to oppose one-party dominance and provide a credible alternative to the APC," he said.
The governorship candidate urged coalition leaders and members to remain united toward defeating the APC in the 2027 governorship election.
Presentation of "Atunto Eko 1.0" Manifesto
Adeoye also presented his "Atunto Eko 1.0" manifesto to party leaders at the declaration event. He said the manifesto focuses on re-engineering Lagos for inclusive prosperity and people-oriented governance. "We want to fight suffering and hunger in Lagos. Our 'Cassava' logo symbolizes our determination to banish poverty. We are ready to serve the people with programs and policies that will improve their lives," he concluded.
