By Our Reporter
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Lagos State for the 2027 election, Engr. Adedeji Doherty, has commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, describing the appointment as proof that competence should transcend party lines.
Speaking to journalists and party supporters on his arrival from the United States, Doherty said Wike’s performance in the FCT had vindicated President Tinubu’s confidence in him.
“Our national leader, Wike, is demonstrating what effective leadership looks like when a leader is given the right tools. We thank President Bola Tinubu for believing in a member of the PDP,” he said, while praising the minister for what he described as the transformation of Abuja through extensive infrastructure development and the commissioning of projects.
On his preparations for the 2027 governorship race, Doherty said the PDP’s immediate priority was the presidential election, adding that political alignments and strategic decisions would unfold as the election season progresses.
“There will be decisions and alignments as events unfold. It is going to be an interesting political season,” he said.
Responding to comments by PDP chieftain Bode George, who reportedly questioned the legitimacy of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), Doherty insisted that the courts had already settled the matter.
According to him, George was no longer in a position to determine the affairs of the PDP, alleging that he and some of his associates had aligned with the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
He further accused George of consistently attacking the party and its members, particularly Wike, despite what he described as the minister’s outstanding achievements in the FCT.
Doherty also dismissed concerns over members leaving the PDP, arguing that politics is driven by the people rather than party labels.
“Some people may leave, but others are joining us from different states. Once you have the people, movement across parties is natural,” he said, while urging George to stop disparaging party members.
Appealing for unity, Doherty said that despite their differences in age and opinion, George should see him as a younger brother deserving of support rather than criticism.
He stressed that he would never insult the elder statesman because he was raised to respect elders.
On governance, Doherty reiterated his pledge to serve only one term if elected governor, after which he intends to hand over leadership to a younger generation.
He said his administration would prioritise electricity, healthcare and education.
According to him, Lagos State could become an equity participant in electricity distribution to reduce the cost of power for residents and small businesses.
“If the state works closely with the distribution companies, electricity costs can be significantly reduced within 30 to 60 days,” he said.
He also proposed regular engagement with pharmaceutical manufacturers, noting that about 90 per cent of Nigeria’s pharmaceutical companies are based in Lagos.
He argued that sustained dialogue between government and industry stakeholders would help reduce the cost of medicines and improve healthcare delivery.
Doherty urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to stop using local government council secretariats and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) as collation centres during general elections in Lagos State.
Instead, he recommended the use of schools, churches, mosques and other neutral public facilities to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
A long-standing member of the PDP for more than 26 years, Doherty noted that he had served in several leadership positions within the party, including Director-General of Senator Musiliu Obanikoro’s campaign and Chairman of the Lagos State Atiku-Okowa Presidential Campaign Council during the 2023 elections.
He also appealed to Lagos residents, especially young people, to participate actively in elections.
“Lagos has over 13 million registered voters, yet only about two million vote. If we desire change, we must participate. Young people must stand up, be counted and shape the future they want,” he said.
Doherty added that members of the Nigerian diaspora in cities including Atlanta, Houston and the United Kingdom had expressed their willingness to support his vision for Lagos.
He, however, clarified that his recent overseas trip was primarily for business and family engagements rather than politics.