PDP Chieftains Target Lagos, Ogun in 2027 Elections, Challenge APC Dominance
In a strategic move ahead of the 2027 general elections, two prominent members of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) have formally declared their intentions to contest governorship seats in key Southwest states. This development marks an early effort by the opposition party to rebuild its political relevance in regions currently dominated by the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adelaja Adeoye Positions for Lagos Governorship Race
Adelaja Adeoye, widely recognized as Laja Adeoye within political circles, has expressed strong interest in contesting the Lagos State governorship election in 2027. The communications strategist and entrepreneur has maintained active involvement in PDP discussions as preparations gradually intensify for the upcoming electoral cycle.
Adeoye's political journey includes significant roles in opposition politics. He previously served as the pioneer Publicity Secretary for the Action Democratic Party in Lagos State in 2017, later rising to become the party's National Publicity Secretary in 2019. His academic credentials include studies at the University of Lagos and a master's degree in Property Development and Management from Lead City University.
In 2022, Adeoye sought the PDP ticket for the House of Representatives seat representing Oshodi Isolo Federal Constituency II in Lagos West Senatorial District. His current governorship ambition appears to be part of broader PDP efforts to strengthen its political base in Lagos State, where the APC has maintained firm control in recent election cycles.
Segun Showunmi Declares Ogun State Ambition
In neighboring Ogun State, former Atiku Abubakar spokesperson Segun Showunmi has openly announced his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election. Showunmi made his position known through public declarations in early 2026, emphasizing development concerns in critical areas including healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Showunmi has argued that Ogun State has not fully capitalized on its strategic proximity to Lagos, stating, "We need to design Ogun not to work for the person in Oke-Mosan, but to work for every person in the nooks and crannies of the state." He has specifically criticized the condition of facilities such as the historic Sacred Heart Hospital while calling for leadership driven by character and commitment to public welfare.
Political Context and Party Challenges
Political observers view these early declarations as significant indicators that the PDP intends to mount serious challenges in Southwest states where the APC has enjoyed electoral dominance. The region has largely remained under APC control in recent election cycles, making these gubernatorial ambitions crucial for PDP's regional resurgence.
However, the PDP faces internal challenges as it prepares for the 2027 elections. The party recently experienced another high-profile departure when former National Publicity Secretary Kola Ologbondiyan formally resigned in December 2025. Ologbondiyan announced his resignation through a statement on social media platform X, sharing a letter addressed to the chairman of his Okekoko Ward in Kabba Bunu Local Government, Kogi State.
This exit adds further pressure to a party already grappling with internal disputes and steady defections across several states. The PDP must navigate these challenges while simultaneously building competitive candidates and campaigns for crucial states like Lagos and Ogun.
The early positioning of Adeoye and Showunmi suggests that the PDP recognizes the importance of establishing strong candidates well in advance of the 2027 elections. Both candidates bring distinct backgrounds and experiences that could appeal to voters seeking alternatives to the current political establishment in their respective states.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, these declarations mark the beginning of what promises to be intense electoral competition in Southwest Nigeria. The success of PDP's efforts to regain relevance in Lagos and Ogun will depend not only on candidate quality but also on the party's ability to address internal cohesion and present compelling alternatives to the ruling APC's governance record.
