Funsho Doherty, the Lagos State governorship candidate of the New Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has explained his movement from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and later to the NDC, saying the decisions were influenced by the need for a stronger political structure.
Speaking on an interview with Adamimogo FM Nigeria, Doherty said he and his team reviewed the ADC after the 2023 elections and found that the party lacked the structures and followership needed to effectively pursue their political objectives. He said they subsequently joined the PDP but later moved on following internal issues and several court cases affecting the party.
According to him, the successive movements were not driven by a desire to continually change political platforms, but by circumstances within the parties. He said the NDC eventually provided a platform that aligned with his vision for Lagos and described the party as representing progress for the state.
Doherty also raised concerns over the activities of alleged thugs and extortion by transport unions in Lagos, claiming that such groups operate across different parts of the state and have close ties with political actors. He alleged that the groups are sometimes used for political purposes, particularly during elections.
He said addressing the issue would require stronger action and a change in the approach to governance, urging Lagos residents to demand a government that, in his view, is accountable to the people and committed to tackling the activities of groups involved in extortion and political violence.
On housing, Doherty said the challenge was not a recent development, noting that Lagos’ growing population has continued to put pressure on available housing. He called for significant government intervention in the sector, adding that housing and transportation are part of key components of the NDC’s manifesto for Lagos State.
Doherty also stressed that governance should be centred on service rather than personal enjoyment or the pursuit of political position. Responding to concerns about his calm and easy-going personality, he said effective leadership does not require being loud or confrontational, adding that governing Lagos is a collective responsibility and not a one-man affair.
