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Abdulazeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, confirmed on a recent episode of Politics Today that he intends to run for governor of Lagos State in 2027. Previously, he ran in the 2023 governorship race and came third, securing 62,449 votes.
Earlier this year, Jandor left the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC). He cited ongoing indiscipline and “anti-party” activities in his former party as his rationale for switching. His defection to the APC, especially ahead of the next election cycle, signals that he is repositioning himself within Nigeria’s dominant ruling coalition.
While admitting his ambition to contest in 2027, Jandor also pledged unity within APC aspirations. He declared that if Seyi Tinubu—the son of President Bola Tinubu—were to emerge as the APC candidate for Lagos governor, he is willing to support him. Jandor made it clear that all aspirants would fall in line behind the party’s choice.
In defending his own credentials, Jandor claimed that he brings electoral experience that many of his potential rivals lack. He highlighted that only he has contested a full governorship campaign (in 2023) and navigated the complexities of Lagos politics on his own merit. He pointed out that although other contenders—including Seyi Tinubu, former governor Akinwunmi Ambode, and Senator Tokunbo Abiru—are qualified to run, few have “walked the entire path” of contesting a governorship election.
Even as he voices contention for the Lagos governorship ticket, Jandor projected optimism about APC’s prospects. He predicted that the 2027 general elections and the presidential race would be a “walkover” for President Tinubu’s influence, citing the widening reach of Tinubu’s political structures since 2023. He contrasted his prior outsider posture (“outside the system”) with his stated plan to be “inside” the system going forward, implying that his new alignment may bolster his chances.
He also dismissed the idea of running for presidency in the interim, saying there is no vacancy at Aso Rock until 2031, so his focus will remain on the Lagos governorship.
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Politically, Jandor’s stance carries multiple layers. His move into APC suggests he is seeking to leverage the ruling party’s machinery and connections. By publicly proclaiming support for Seyi Tinubu should he win the APC primary, the move may be designed to both signal loyalty and position himself as a team player, possibly boosting his standing within party ranks. His emphasis on prior electoral experience seeks to distinguish him from other contenders.
However, his willingness to fall in line also reveals the realpolitik of intra-party contests: aspirants often acknowledge that once a candidate is selected, collective support becomes necessary to preserve party unity and avoid fracturing. Should Seyi Tinubu decide to run and command substantial backing, Jandor may find his declaration of support crucial in navigating internal party dynamics.
