The Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship candidate for Lagos State, Abdul‑Azeez Adediran—also known as Jandor—asserted that Igbo residents deserve respect and protection for their substantial contributions to the state’s development. Speaking alongside his running mate, Funke Akindele, and other PDP leaders, Adediran addressed an Igbo group, Ndigbo Na Lagos Bu Otu, at a town‑hall meeting in Surulere on Sunday.
He emphasized his appreciation for Lagosians of Igbo extraction, noting that their investments in major markets such as Aspanda, Ladipo, Trade Fair, Alaba International, and other Igbo‑dominated trading hubs have significantly bolstered Lagos’s status as Nigeria’s richest state. “It behoves every sensible owner of Lagos to protect and respect those who have added to its prosperity,” he said, adding that the current situation in Lagos falls short of that ideal.
Adediran pledged that, if elected, he would treat Igbos and all other ethnic groups with respect, safeguard their interests, and create an enabling environment for their businesses to thrive. He promised to end harassment, intimidation, and exploitation throughout the state. Confident of winning the March 11 governorship election, he urged voters to turn out en masse without fear of intimidation, stating, “You don’t have a problem with me. I will continue to fight for you.”
Funke Akindele praised the Igbos for recognizing and supporting the PDP candidate. She expressed confidence that the PDP would win and called on the group to work harder, influence others, and vote for Adediran. “Jandor is a man of action; with him as governor you will see change in the state. Lagos is for you—Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, and every tribe. We are ready to bring that change and will not disappoint you,” she said, urging the NdIgbo to vote, prevent rigging, and protect their ballots.
Chief Ernest Chukwujekwu, president of the group, described Adediran as “our own brother” for his alignment with NdIgbo concerns. He recalled that many members had supported Peter Obi in the February 25 presidential election because of Obi’s capabilities, but now they seek a capable hand in Lagos to support their businesses. “Many of us are suffering because of problems at our workplaces. We have decided to support our brother, Jandor,” Chukwujekwu concluded.
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