Public policy advocate to run for governor in Lagos
Public policy advocate, Funso Doherty, has declared his intention to run for governor of Lagos State, delivering a strong critique of inequality, governance failures, and what he described as decades
Public policy advocate, Funso Doherty, has declared his intention to run for governor of Lagos State, delivering a strong critique of inequality, governance failures, and what he described as decades of political dominance.
Speaking at Freedom Park Lagos Island, Doherty framed his candidacy as a response to ‘widening inequality, declining public services, and a disconnect between government spending and citizens’ welfare’.
“With humility, I would like to announce my candidacy to be the next governor of Lagos State,” he said, noting his declaration, scheduled earlier, was postponed following a dispute involving recognition of his party’s leadership by INEC.
Doherty said he remains focused on offering credible alternatives. He alleged APC is attempting to distract opposition voices, but insisted the political contest would centre on governance performance and realities facing residents.
Doherty argued Lagos possesses sufficient resources to meet needs of its population but is structured to benefit a narrow segment of society.
He decried inequality, contrasting luxury developments with hardship in education, housing, healthcare, and infrastructure. Despite a 2026 budget exceeding N4 trillion, he said basic services remain out of reach for many residents.
Highlighting the education sector, Doherty cited figures showing that more than half of pupils in public schools failed the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), describing it as a sign of systemic decline.
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On housing, he noted that many Lagosians spend up to 60 per cent of their income on rent, calling the situation “a dignity problem” and warning of long-term social consequences.
He also criticised the state’s transport system, pointing to long commute times and inadequate public transit options, particularly for workers travelling from suburbs to commercial centres.
Doherty further accused successive administrations of failing to uphold the social contract, arguing that citizens are left to provide their own electricity, water, and security despite paying taxes.
“They fund the government and fund themselves,” he stressed.
Outlining his vision, the governorship hopeful promised investments in education, healthcare, housing, and mass transit.
He pledged to prioritise free and quality basic education, expand vocational training, improve access to healthcare, and develop integrated transport systems across road, rail, and waterways.
He also called for accountable governance, stressing that public resources must be transparently managed to benefit all residents.
Doherty acknowledged the difficulty of challenging established political structures but urged Lagosians to take collective action.
“The forces that benefit from the status quo are well-funded and deeply entrenched,” he said. “This campaign must be about us.”
Framing the election as a turning point, he said Lagos must move away from a system that concentrates opportunity among a few and instead build a city that works for everyone.
