Prince Laja Adeoye, a governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has raised concerns over internal democracy in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adeoye, in a statement on Wednesday, was reacting to reports of series of endorsements of Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat as APC consensus candidate for the 2027 governorship race.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that several APC leaders, including Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker, Lagos House of Assembly, and Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff, Presidency, had endorsed Hamzat.
Speaking, Adeoye, who highlighted the need for open and competitive processes in leadership selection across political parties, accused the the ruling party of shutting out genuine ambition through its “questionable consensus”.
According to him, credible primaries and broad participation remain essential to strengthening democratic culture and public trust.
Adeoye said: “The reported endorsement of Dr Obafemi Hamzat underscores the importance of transparent and inclusive processes in candidate selection.
“Political parties must ensure that their internal mechanisms reflect democratic values and allow fair competition among aspirants.
“This is critical to building confidence among party members and the general electorate ahead of major elections.”
Adeoye said that leadership choices should be based on competence, vision and the capacity to deliver tangible results for citizens.
He noted that Lagos, as a leading economic hub, requires policies that address infrastructure gaps, social services and economic inclusion.
“Lagos deserves leadership that emerges from a process that encourages ideas, debates and participation from a wide range of stakeholders.
“Such a process will ultimately produce leaders who are accountable and responsive to the needs of the people.
“It is important that governance remains focused on improving the daily lives of residents through practical and measurable interventions.”
Adeoye said his development blueprint had the potential to take the state to the next level.
The blueprint “Better Lagos Agenda 2027,” codenamed Atunto Eko 1.0, aimed at promoting inclusive growth and sustainable development.
“Our agenda prioritises infrastructure renewal, including the completion of key transport projects and the deployment of smart traffic management systems.
“We will support micro, small and medium enterprises through structured funding, tax incentives and investment promotion to drive job creation.
“Our administration will strengthen community-based security initiatives, supported by modern technology and improved welfare for personnel.”
He said the plan also covers housing, healthcare, education and environmental sustainability.
“We will expand access to affordable housing through partnerships and upgrade communities with essential infrastructure.
“Our focus will include strengthening primary healthcare, improving insurance coverage and enhancing access to quality education and skills training.
“We will also implement effective flood control measures, improve waste management and promote climate-resilient infrastructure.”
Adeoye added that transparency and accountability would be central to governance under his administration.
“We will digitise government services to enhance efficiency, reduce leakages and improve service delivery.
“Public accountability systems will be strengthened to ensure prudent use of resources and build public trust.
“The 2027 election presents an opportunity to deepen democracy and deliver inclusive development for all residents of Lagos State,” he said.
