A growing wave of political commentary has emerged in Lagos State following the reported unveiling of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the 2027 elections, with Prince Adelaja Adeoye warning that the development signals what he described as “political inevitability” that must be challenged by voters.
Across several communities in the state, including Oshodi, Mushin, Badagry, Ikorodu, Isolo, Epe, and Lagos Island, Adeoye noted a recurring public sentiment of resignation, which he says reflects deep frustration with what he called over two decades of uninterrupted political dominance.
According to him, the perception that electoral outcomes are predetermined before voting takes place undermines democratic participation and weakens public trust in governance.
“That quiet acceptance is more painful than political attacks,” Adeoye stated. “It reflects a belief that decisions have already been made before the people are even allowed to speak.”
He further criticized what he described as the influence of entrenched political structures within the state, arguing that such systems have contributed to voter apathy and weakened accountability.
Adeoye highlighted long-standing infrastructural and social challenges across Lagos communities, citing areas such as Ajegunle, Badagry, Mushin, Oshodi, Alimosho, Isale Eko, Badia, and Makoko.
He pointed to issues including poor drainage systems, flooding, inadequate healthcare facilities, declining school infrastructure, and lack of resettlement support in communities affected by demolition exercises.
Despite Lagos generating significant internal revenue, he argued that many low-income and informal settlements continue to experience limited access to basic public services.
He also raised concerns about rising unemployment among young people, increasing cost of living, and escalating housing costs across the state.
The 2023 general elections were referenced as evidence of shifting political behaviour in Lagos, particularly the presidential election outcome in the state, where opposition parties recorded significant gains.
Adeoye described that outcome as a sign of “political awakening,” driven largely by youth participation and voter mobilisation.
However, he cautioned that enthusiasm must be sustained ahead of 2027, warning that early political positioning by dominant parties could be aimed at discouraging voter participation.
He urged Lagos residents not to disengage from the electoral process, stressing that voter apathy benefits established political structures.
“Every unoccupied polling unit strengthens the status quo,” he said, calling on residents to register, collect their Permanent Voter Cards, and actively participate in elections.
Adeoye also emphasized the need for greater electoral transparency, including voter education, monitoring, and legal oversight at polling units.
Addressing residents across different parts of the state, Adeoye appealed for renewed civic engagement and optimism about the future of Lagos governance.
“To those who feel nothing will change, I say the opportunity for change is still ahead,” he stated. “Lagos belongs to all its people, and its future must be determined by their collective will.”
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to political participation in the state, describing himself as “a son of Lagos with deep roots across its communities,” and expressed readiness to work toward what he called a more inclusive and accountable Lagos.
