One of the aspirants in the 2027 Lagos State governorship race, Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has stepped down from the contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He made the announcement on Thursday while addressing supporters, party leaders and members of the Lagos4Lagos Movement at Liberty House in Ikeja.
Jandor’s decision comes on the heels of President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement of Lagos State deputy governor, Obafemi Hamzat.
Explaining his withdrawal, he cited recent developments within the party.
“Within hours after I purchased my nomination forms, there were developments, including a meeting involving the President and the Deputy Governor. It was subsequently made known that the President had endorsed Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.
“Based on my earlier position that I will align with the direction of the President, I have decided to withdraw from the race,” he said.
He called on his supporters to remain calm and respect the party’s internal processes, emphasising the need for unity and discipline within the APC.
Adediran noted that his decision underscores his commitment to party supremacy and his confidence in its internal democratic system, while also reaffirming his loyalty to President Tinubu.
He further expressed gratitude to party leaders in Lagos State for their guidance and support.
His withdrawal comes barely 24 hours after purchasing his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for the race.
Meanwhile, Hamzat had earlier secured his nomination form, reportedly with the backing of the Governance Advisory Council, the apex decision-making body of the APC in Lagos State.