An aspirant for the Lagos State governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Samuel Mawuyon Ajose, has declared his intention to contest, saying his ambition is driven by what he described as decades of neglect suffered by the people of Badagry.
Speaking in an interview with Arise News, monitored by The News Chronicle, Ajose said his decision to enter the race is rooted in a desire to give voice to communities he claims have been sidelined for 57 years.
He also criticised the party’s consensus arrangement, arguing that though constitutional, it undermines internal democracy when multiple aspirants are in the race but one is quietly favoured as the “preferred” candidate.
Ajose revealed that his nomination form was financed through contributions from supporters, which he said reflects strong grassroots confidence in his leadership capacity and empathy-driven agenda.
He further maintained that no formal directive has been issued by APC leadership, at either state or national level, compelling him to withdraw, adding that several party stakeholders have instead encouraged him to remain in the contest.
On his vision for Lagos, Ajose called for a shift beyond the current wage structure, insisting the state should move from a minimum wage framework to a living wage system.
While acknowledging Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s performance, he said governance must now be improved upon, insisting he has the capacity to take Lagos further.
