Former Lagos State governorship candidate Funso Doherty has announced his intention to run in the 2027 elections, expressing confidence that the ruling All Progressives Congress can be unseated in the state. During an appearance on Silverbird Television, Doherty dismissed the notion that Lagos is an impregnable APC stronghold, citing the results of the 2023 presidential election as evidence to the contrary.
Doherty argued that the APC’s loss in Lagos during the last presidential election demonstrates that the state is not permanently tied to the party. He confirmed that he will seek the governorship seat on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, stating that the ultimate power to determine the outcome of the election rests with the electorate.
On the national front, Doherty criticized the APC-led federal government for deepening economic hardship and widening ethnic divisions across the country. He described Nigeria as a nation split between the privileged few and the majority, highlighting the deteriorating living standards of millions of citizens despite the government’s celebration of foreign reserves and exchange rate stability.
Doherty also called for reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of 2027, emphasizing the need for an Independent National Electoral Commission that adheres strictly to its own regulations. He stressed that overwhelming voter participation can still secure credible outcomes despite existing challenges with electoral integrity.
The announcement comes as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, with many citizens eager for change. Doherty’s candidacy is likely to be closely watched, given his previous experience and his party’s efforts to unseat the ruling APC in Lagos. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how Doherty’s message will resonate with voters and whether he can build on the momentum from the 2023 presidential election. With the electoral process under scrutiny, Doherty’s call for reforms and increased voter participation may strike a chord with Nigerians seeking a more transparent and accountable democratic process.