LAGOS — The governorship ambition of the National Democratic Party (NDP) candidate, Hon. Akinola Obadia, has received a significant boost as more than 50 former political party chairmen in Lagos State, under the Conference of Deregistered Political Parties in Nigeria (CDPPN), Lagos State Chapter, prepare to throw their weight behind his candidacy.
The group, comprising former party chairmen and their respective political structures, is planning to adopt Obadia as its preferred candidate for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election following what it described as a careful assessment of candidates seeking to occupy the state’s highest political office.
In a press release issued by the CDPPN Lagos State Chapter Chairman, Hon. Dr. Oguntoyinbo Olumide Hassan, the group indicated that Obadia’s antecedents and perceived leadership qualities have placed him in a favourable position in its ongoing political considerations.
Oguntoyinbo explained that the group was assessing the candidates based on their leadership credentials, character and capacity to provide people-oriented governance, rather than party affiliation alone.
According to him, the emerging position reflects the group’s belief that Lagos needs leadership anchored on integrity, competence, accountability and a genuine commitment to the welfare of its residents.
“We have keenly studied the candidates of the various political parties seeking to govern Lagos State, and Hon. Akinola Obadia of the National Democratic Party has emerged as a strong choice based on our assessment of his antecedents and leadership qualities.
“Our position is informed by the need for purposeful leadership that puts the people first. Governance must go beyond political promises; it must be about accountability, transparency, responsible management of public resources and the delivery of tangible benefits to the people,” Oguntoyinbo said.
He added that the group was considering the broader implications of its political decision, particularly the need for a governor who would be accessible to the people, responsive to their challenges and committed to inclusive development.
“Leadership is about service, not self-interest. Lagosians deserve a leader who understands their challenges, listens to their concerns and works tirelessly to improve their standard of living.
“We believe that integrity, competence, compassion and accountability must be central to the choice of the next governor. These are the considerations guiding our position on Hon. Obadia,” the chairman added.
GRASSROOTS POLITICAL IMPLICATIONS
The anticipated endorsement could provide a significant boost to Obadia’s political fortunes, given the experience of the former party chairmen and the grassroots structures they are believed to command across Lagos State.
Although the group is yet to formally conclude and announce its endorsement, its emerging preference for the NDP candidate signals a potentially important development in the political calculations ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The development also highlights the possibility of political realignments beyond the major political parties as stakeholders consider alternative candidates and platforms ahead of the polls.
For Obadia, the anticipated backing of the CDPPN bloc could create an opportunity to expand his political reach, strengthen grassroots engagement and present his candidacy to a wider spectrum of Lagos voters.
As political activities gather momentum, attention will be focused on the group’s next move and the possibility of a formal endorsement that could bring together more than 50 former party chairmen and their respective political networks behind the NDP candidate.
Should the planned endorsement materialise, it would mark a notable step in Obadia’s efforts to build a broader coalition of political stakeholders ahead of the 2027 Lagos governorship election.
