A Political Maverick Speaks Out
Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, has made headlines once again. In a recent appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Jandor declared that he doesn’t need to consult President Bola Tinubu to achieve his dream of becoming Lagos State governor. This bold statement has sparked conversations about his political journey, his ambitions, and the dynamics of Lagos politics.
From APC to PDP: Jandor’s Political Journey
Jandor’s political career began in the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he was a prominent figure. However, in 2022, he made a dramatic exit from the party, taking his Lagos4Lagos Movement—a bloc within the APC—with him. He later joined the PDP and secured the party’s governorship ticket for the 2023 election.
Despite a spirited campaign, Jandor lost to the incumbent governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the APC, who was re-elected for a second term. Reflecting on his defeat, Jandor accused some PDP leaders of sabotaging his efforts, claiming they engaged in anti-party activities.
Why Jandor Left the PDP
Jandor’s departure from the PDP was no small decision. He revealed that he waited for two years to see if the party’s national leadership would address the alleged anti-party activities of certain members. Instead, he was disappointed when one of the accused was appointed Vice Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee.
“We waited patiently for two years to see whether that would happen, but instead, the same person was appointed Vice Chairman, Disciplinary Committee by the national,” Jandor explained. This move, he said, was the final straw that led to his exit from the party.
2027 Ambitions: A New Path Forward
Despite the setbacks, Jandor remains undeterred in his quest to govern Lagos. He hinted at the possibility of joining another political party to realize his 2027 ambition. “We have chosen this path; we are not deviating. It is only God that can determine who and when. This is the path that we have chosen,” he said.
Interestingly, Jandor revealed that he hasn’t met with President Bola Tinubu since leaving the APC in 2022. This statement underscores his determination to carve out an independent political path, free from the influence of Lagos’s political godfathers.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in Lagos Politics?
Jandor’s bold declaration and his decision to chart a new course have positioned him as a maverick in Lagos politics. Whether he can rally enough support to challenge the entrenched APC machinery in 2027 remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Jandor is not backing down, and his journey will be one to watch in the coming years.