The controversy surrounding the Lagos state chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has deepened as two contenders for the governorship race in the state are now claiming to be the party’s authentic candidate for the 2027 general elections. A couple of days after Naheem Balogun, assures his supporters that he remained the authentic governorship candidate of the party in Lagos, prominent politician, Funso Doherty, has accepted the nomination of the party as its candidate.
In an
acceptance letter shared on his official X account on Friday, Doherty stressed
humility, gratitude to the party, and a vision for inclusive leadership.
Attached
images on his X post show him holding an NDC 2026 gubernatorial nomination form
and a campaign poster declaring him the NDC flag bearer with the Yoruba slogan,
“Ó TI YÁ”, meaning it is time for change.
“With
profound humility, gratitude, and a clear sense of purpose, I accept our
party’s nomination to serve as its candidate for Governor of Lagos State in
2027,” Doherty wrote.
“I am
deeply grateful for the confidence our great party has placed in me and for our
shared belief that Lagos deserves much better—inclusive leadership that works
for everyone.
“The
real work begins now. Together, we will build the Lagos that we know is
possible. My friends, it’s time – O TI Ya!”
Last
month, Doherty dumped the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the NDC, weeks
after dumping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ADC.
According
to him, the ADC is currently facing a development that has led to a division of
the opposition coalition with some leaders moving to the NDC and some remaining
in the ADC.
Doherty
said he had hoped that the ADC would be the vehicle that would unite the
opposition, adding that since that is no longer the case, “we must each
individually make a decision as to whether to remain with the ADC or move to
the NDC.”
Announcing
his membership of the NDC, Doherty stated that he joined the party after due
consultation, careful deliberation and prayerful reflection.
He
described the NDC as the path that will enable the opposition to
deliver the benefits of good governance to those to whom they are due – every
citizen, without exception.
“The
battle ahead remains formidable, but I invite you to join us on this exciting,
though sometimes turbulent, journey to a brighter future that has been
long-promised and that has so far proven elusive, but that is, by the grace of
God, now imminent,” Doherty said.
However, Doherty’s nomination
has pitched him against supporters of Naheem Balogun whom they regard as their
mandated candidate. A couple of days ago, Naheem Balogun assured supporters that he remained the
party’s authentic flag bearer for the 2027 election, dismissing reports
suggesting that another candidate has emerged with the ticket.
Balogun
gave the assurance while receiving party faithful and supporters who turned out
to welcome him on his return from a short trip to the United States.
The
NDC hopeful expressed appreciation for the show of support, describing the
turnout as a source of encouragement and motivation.
He
reiterated the need for calm among party members, insisting that he remains the
duly recognised governorship candidate of the party.
“I
urge all our supporters not to be distracted by rumours and misinformation.
Remain calm, focused and steadfast. The mandate given to us by party members
cannot be taken away through speculation and propaganda.
“I
will continue to protect the interests of our supporters and the NDC faithful.
I will not take any decision affecting our collective future without consulting
stakeholders across Lagos State. This project belongs to the people, and
together we will determine its direction,” he said.
Balogun
thanked party members across the state’s local government areas for their
continued support and sacrifices, describing their commitment as the foundation
of the movement he represents.
As at the time of filing this report, the national organ of the party had not made any clear-cut statement as to who the real candidate of the party in Lagos is.
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