2027: PDP chieftains take on APC strongholds in Lagos and Ogun

2026-03-08 - 13:48

By Olasunkanmi Akoni Two prominent People’s Democratic Party (PDP) figures, Prince Adelaja Adeoye in Lagos State and Otunba Segun Showunmi in Ogun State, have declared their intentions to contest the 2027 gubernatorial elections, challenging the entrenched dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-West. Adeoye, a seasoned PDP chieftain and vocal advocate for the party’s revival in Lagos, brings experience as a media strategist, thought leader, and real estate entrepreneur. Fondly called Laja Adeoye, he holds degrees from the University of Lagos and a master’s in Property Development and Management from Lead City University. A former pioneer State Publicity Secretary of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) in Lagos and later National Publicity Secretary, Adeoye also contested for a House of Representatives seat in 2022. His deep roots in the Ijebu and Awori communities across Lagos are seen as strengthening his appeal to grassroots voters. Political analysts describe Adeoye’s gubernatorial bid as a bold effort to inject energy into a PDP that has struggled to mount a credible challenge in Lagos, historically an APC stronghold. His youth-oriented approach and professional background are expected to mobilise a fresh electorate seeking generational change and innovative leadership. Meanwhile, in Ogun State, Showunmi, a former presidential spokesperson to [“people”,”Atiku Abubakar”] and convener of “The Alternatives” movement, has formally declared his gubernatorial ambition. Citing developmental gaps in healthcare, education, and infrastructure, he emphasises governance that serves all residents rather than narrow political interests. Despite overtures from other parties, including the Labour Party and Action Alliance, Showunmi remains committed to the PDP, leveraging his reputation as a bridge-builder and youth advocate. Political observers note that the moves by Adeoye and Showunmi challenge the narrative that opposition politics in Lagos and Ogun is futile. Their decisions reflect a willingness to contest entrenched political structures and may inspire a new generation of politicians to pursue change from within rather than defect to the ruling party. As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 elections, the entries of Adeoye and Showunmi highlight the possibility of competitive politics returning to the South-West, reminding citizens that boldness and vision remain essential in the country’s democratic process.