By Alfred Abiodun
LAGOS, Nigeria — September 17, 2026
Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant, Engineer Deji Doherty, has called for greater political dialogue among Nigeria’s political leaders, urging governors and other stakeholders to place national interests above political differences.
Doherty made the call on Thursday, September 17, 2026, shortly after arriving from overseas, while speaking with journalists at the arrival wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMA), Lagos, where he also discussed his gubernatorial ambition, his plans for Lagos and the evolving political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
His comments came amid continuing political discussions around the Rainbow Coalition, the relationship between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other political platforms, as well as the political role of Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Doherty Calls for Broader Political Engagement
Speaking on the political developments surrounding the Rainbow Coalition, Doherty appealed to governors and political leaders to prioritise what he described as the larger national interest.
According to him, political differences should not overshadow the need for dialogue, accommodation and cooperation among political actors.
Doherty argued that there should be room for interaction and coalition-building across party lines where political interests and national objectives converge.
He also questioned the opposition to Wike’s political activities, arguing that other politicians and governors outside the APC have also taken positions that align them with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political agenda.
“If there is a coalition between NDC and ADC and all the other political parties, why can’t there be that same coalition between PDP and APC?” Doherty asked.
He further appealed to governors who have criticised Wike to reconsider their positions and examine the broader political implications of the ongoing disagreements.
Doherty Discusses Tinubu’s Economic Reforms
The Lagos PDP politician also commented on the economic consequences of the Federal Government’s reforms, including the foreign exchange reforms and fuel subsidy removal.
Doherty acknowledged that the reforms had generated economic pressures and hardship, while questioning how additional resources available to state governments were being deployed to cushion their effects on residents.
He said state governments should use available resources to provide relief to vulnerable citizens and improve essential public services.
Promises Tax Relief for Teachers and Medical Workers
Turning to his proposed agenda for Lagos State, Doherty outlined several measures he said he would introduce from the beginning of his administration if elected governor.
Among the proposals are significant reductions in taxes paid by teachers, doctors, nurses and other medical personnel working in Lagos State.
He also promised to pursue what he described as free education across board, while proposing major transportation concessions for elderly residents.
Doherty said residents aged approximately 68 to 70 and above should benefit from free public transportation under his proposed administration.
He further raised concerns about the welfare and social inclusion of persons living with disabilities, saying more attention should be devoted to their needs.
“Lagosians Will Feel My Impact Within Seven Days”
While acknowledging that the incumbent administration under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had undertaken various projects and initiatives, Doherty said he believed a future administration could deliver more extensive interventions.
He stated that Lagos residents would feel the impact of his administration within the first seven days in office if elected.
The statement forms part of a broader agenda Doherty has previously outlined around education, healthcare, transportation, security, infrastructure, youth development and economic empowerment. In a June 2026 media briefing, he also proposed interventions in electricity, roads, housing and security.
Doherty: Campaign Will Be Conducted in Phases
On preparations for the 2027 election campaign, Doherty said he was returning to Lagos energised and ready for the political season.
He disclosed that his campaign strategy would be implemented in several phases, beginning with public awareness.
According to him, campaign stickers had already appeared at locations across Lagos as part of the initial awareness phase.
Doherty said his political experience would be an important part of his campaign, pointing to his long involvement in the PDP and his previous leadership positions within the party.
He said he had served in different capacities within the PDP, including as financial secretary, organising secretary, vice chairman and chairman of the Lagos State chapter.
His political history has also been reflected in recent reporting. In March 2026, he was reported as having emerged chairman of the PDP’s South-West Zonal Working Committee.
Youth Unemployment and Homelessness
Doherty also drew attention to what he described as the growing challenges confronting young people in Lagos, including drug abuse, street living and homelessness.
He said the sight of young people sleeping under bridges and struggling to survive should concern policymakers and require stronger intervention.
According to him, his administration would place greater emphasis on addressing the social and economic circumstances contributing to youth vulnerability.
Calls for Political Reconciliation
Doherty concluded his intervention with another appeal for political dialogue, arguing that President Tinubu, Wike and governors across political divides should be able to work together where their interests converge.
He specifically urged governors critical of Wike to “step back” and consider what he described as the larger political picture.
His comments add another dimension to the ongoing debate over political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
