By Luminous Jannamike
THE Lagos State chapter of the Accord Party has unveiled its candidates for the 2027 general elections and reaffirmed its backing for presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, as party leaders moved to dispel lingering controversy surrounding the party’s ticket.
The event combined the presentation of Certificates of Return to 27 candidates with a public show of support for Olawepo-Hashim, highlightng the party’s effort to project unity and build momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the state chairman of the party and Accord’s Lagos West Senatorial candidate, Dele Oladeji, joined other candidates, party leaders and supporters to formally present the party’s governorship, senatorial, House of Representatives and Lagos State House of Assembly candidates.
“Today is significant because it affirms the candidates of the Accord Party in Lagos State for the 2027 general elections. We are issuing Certificates of Return and formally presenting them as the party’s candidates for the forthcoming elections,” Oladeji said.
The party said it had fielded 27 candidates across Lagos State, including contenders for the governorship seat, the three senatorial districts, House of Representatives constituencies and seats in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Oladeji said the party was offering Lagos residents what it described as a credible political alternative, anchored on social justice, equity and welfare-oriented governance, with a focus on improving citizens’ welfare, strengthening security and protecting lives and property.
The unveiling was followed by a rally at which party leaders and supporters renewed their backing for Olawepo-Hashim and dismissed speculation surrounding the party’s presidential ticket.
“Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim remains our presidential candidate. We are focused on building a national movement capable of rescuing Nigeria through competence, productivity and visionary leadership,” said Adetebi Oluseyi of Alimosho, speaking on behalf of supporters.
The rally came days after Olawepo-Hashim emerged from the party’s presidential primary and amid a series of endorsements and solidarity gatherings held in different parts of the country.
Also speaking, Accord’s Lagos Central Senatorial candidate, Solomon Oladimeji Wahab, said his aspiration was driven by a desire to improve governance and ensure that citizens benefit more directly from democratic dividends.
He urged eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate actively in the electoral process, while calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct transparent, free and credible elections.
For his part, the party’s House of Representatives candidate for Badagry Federal Constituency, Joseph Taiwo Jehoshaphat, pledged to address infrastructure challenges and youth unemployment, saying that attracting federal projects and development initiatives to the constituency would be among his priorities.
The party’s Lagos State House of Assembly candidate for Somolu Constituency II, Abisoye Obayon, said he entered the race to promote development and create more opportunities for residents. He also expressed confidence that voters would support candidates with strong community roots and practical solutions to local challenges.
Also speaking, Lagos East Senatorial candidate Blessing Maduka-Sunday called for greater participation of women in politics, describing the low representation of women in elective offices as a challenge to inclusive governance.
She urged more women to seek elective positions and advocated policies aimed at women’s empowerment, poverty reduction and wealth creation.
