ADC Chieftain Naheem Balogun Enters Lagos 2027 Governorship Race

Naheem Balogun, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives candidate, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 Lagos State governorship election. His declaration signals the ADC’s growing ambition to play a more prominent role in Lagos politics as the countdown to the next general elections begins.

Balogun made his intention known at a well-attended ceremony held at the De-Echo Event Centre in Egbeda, Lagos, where party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from Alimosho Local Government Area gathered. The event underscored increasing political activity within opposition parties as they position themselves ahead of the 2027 polls.

Declaration and Call for Political Renewal

Addressing party members and supporters, Balogun reflected on what he described as years of hardship faced by Lagos State residents and Nigerians more broadly. He argued that the prevailing socio-economic challenges demand a new approach to leadership, governance, and public accountability.

He urged citizens to actively participate in the democratic process by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing them as essential instruments for national renewal. According to him, the outcome of the 2023 general elections demonstrated widespread public dissatisfaction and a desire for change.

“The 2023 election sent a clear message. We cannot continue like this. As we approach 2027, Nigerians must get their PVCs and use them to change the fortunes of our dear country,” Balogun said.

ADC’s Strategy and Internal Support

Balogun further emphasised that the ADC remains open to strategic collaborations, welcoming members of other political parties and like-minded individuals committed to good governance and national development. He described inclusiveness and broad-based participation as central to the party’s vision.

The ADC Chairman in Alimosho Local Government Area, Wesley Odeyemi, pledged the party’s full support for Balogun, assuring him of grassroots mobilisation across the constituency. Similarly, the party’s House of Representatives aspirant for Alimosho Federal Constituency, Dapo Igbasan, expressed confidence that the ADC would overcome political intimidation and emerge successful.

Lagos State House of Assembly aspirant, Gideon Adeniran, also stressed that party unity would be critical to achieving electoral success, urging members to remain focused and coordinated as preparations for 2027 intensify.

Emerging Dynamics in Lagos Politics

With the 2027 elections approaching, Lagos State is expected to witness heightened political competition. The ADC has gained increased attention following the defection of Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate, to the party last year, adding momentum to its growing profile.

Despite Balogun’s declaration, it remains unclear who the ADC will ultimately field as its governorship candidate. Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) continues to strategise to retain its long-standing control of the state, setting the stage for a potentially competitive electoral contest.