As Nigerians marked Democracy Day on Friday, Lagos governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Laja Adeoye, used the occasion to position his party as a credible alternative force in Lagos politics, declaring that democracy must move beyond periodic elections to deliver tangible benefits to the people.
In a message released by the Laja Adeoye Campaign Organization (LACO), the opposition leader congratulated Lagosians on the June 12 anniversary, describing the date as a defining symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle and a reminder of the sacrifices made by heroes who fought to protect the people’s right to freely choose their leaders.
Adeoye praised the resilience, determination and enterprise of Lagos residents, noting that their continued faith in democracy remains critical to the growth and stability of both the state and the nation.
“June 12 occupies a special place in Nigeria’s democratic journey. It represents the triumph of the people’s will and the enduring values of freedom, justice and representative governance,” the statement said.
The APM governorship candidate said the significance of the day extends beyond remembrance, stressing that it should inspire political leaders and citizens alike to deepen democratic culture through responsible leadership, accountability and active civic engagement.
He argued that while Nigeria has recorded notable democratic gains over the years, much work remains to ensure that governance translates into meaningful improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens.
According to him, democracy must not exist merely as an electoral exercise but as a system capable of guaranteeing economic opportunity, social justice, security and shared prosperity.
Against the backdrop of growing public demand for improved governance and service delivery, Adeoye reaffirmed his commitment to building what he described as “a Lagos that works for all” — a state where governance is people-oriented, public resources are managed transparently, opportunities are available to every resident and development reaches every community regardless of social or economic status.
He said the APM remains committed to offering Lagosians a clear alternative vision anchored on inclusive governance, economic empowerment, quality education, improved healthcare services, infrastructure renewal, enhanced security and social justice.
“As the foremost opposition movement in Lagos State, we remain dedicated to advancing policies that will improve the quality of life of our people and unlock the immense potential of our state,” the statement added.
Adeoye further urged political actors, civil society groups, institutions and citizens to uphold the rule of law and strengthen democratic institutions, warning that the future of Lagos depends largely on the collective commitment of all stakeholders to democratic principles.
He maintained that visionary leadership, transparency and accountability would be essential in addressing the complex challenges facing Africa’s largest city and economic hub.
The opposition candidate also expressed optimism about the future of Lagos, assuring residents that with unity, purposeful leadership and citizen participation, the state can become more prosperous, equitable and globally competitive.
As Democracy Day celebrations resonated across the country, Adeoye’s message underscored the growing debate over governance, accountability and the quality of democratic dividends available to Nigerians more than two decades after the return to civilian rule.
For Lagosians, the June 12 anniversary remains not only a celebration of democratic resilience but also a reminder that the true test of democracy lies in its ability to improve lives, create opportunities and inspire confidence in the future.
The statement was signed by Ayodele Kazeem, spokesperson of the Laja Adeoye Campaign Organization (LACO), on behalf of the APM governorship candidate.
