By ADEYEMI ADELEYE

Dr Abdul-Azeez Adediran popularly known as Jandor a leading Lagos State Governorship aspirant, has announced his withdrawal from the race citing President Bola Tinubu’s endorsement of the Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat as APC consensus candidate.

Adediran, the Lead Visioner of the Lagos4Lagos Movement, disclosed this at a news conference on Thursday.

Announcing, Adediran said: “We made it known from day one that we have a single aspiration—to contest for the governorship of Lagos State in 2027. We also pledged to support whoever the party eventually presents as its candidate.

“In line with our earlier position that we will align with the decision of the party and the President, I hereby announce my withdrawal from the governorship race.

“We have always said that whoever the party presents will be our rallying point. We are committed to working for the success of the party and all its candidates in the 2027 elections.”

He disclosed that the step followed a meeting involving the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the President, and the Deputy Governor, an official statement confirmed the endorsement of Hamzat as the party’s preferred candidate.

He,however, pledged to stay and work for the party in the forthcoming general election to ensure victory for the ruling party in the state and the re-election of Tinubu.

Adediran, the 2023 PDP governorship candidate, urged his supporters to remain steadfast and united in support of the APC.

He recalled that upon his return to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in March 2025, the group was warmly received by Bola Tinubu and subsequently integrated its structures into the party.

According to him, the group demonstrated its commitment during the June/July 2025 local government elections by supporting APC candidates across all levels.

“We mobilised extensively, provided campaign materials, and inaugurated street captains who undertook door-to-door engagement, despite not fielding any candidates for councillor or chairman positions,” he said.

Adediran noted that the group’s efforts earned formal commendations from the Lagos APC leadership, including letters of appreciation from the party chairman and secretary.

He emphasised that their involvement in party activities was driven by a belief in party supremacy and collective success.

“We have no appointments and hold no office, yet we remain committed to ensuring the party’s victory in all elections,” he said.

Adediran reiterated that his governorship ambition for 2027 had always been clear and openly declared.

He expressed gratitude to supporters who contributed financially toward the purchase of his nomination form, describing the aspiration as a collective project.

“Do not be sorrowful. This is not a personal ambition but a shared vision. I deeply appreciate every contribution, no matter how small,” he added.

Adediran thanked party members and the media for their support.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Adediran had on Wednesday purchased the APC Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms to contest the governorship election. (NAN)

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