Lagos, Nigeria | July 6, 2026 — The Lagos State chapter of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has distanced itself from a purported meeting allegedly convened for the party’s Local Government Chairmen and Assembly candidates by Dr. Naheem Abiodun Balogun, describing the gathering as unauthorized and unrelated to the party’s official structure.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Lagos State Publicity Secretary, Olushile Akinyemi, the party clarified that its officially recognized governorship candidate for the forthcoming Lagos State governorship election remains Mr. Funso Doherty, stressing that no other individual has been nominated, endorsed, or presented by the NDC for the position.
The statement followed the circulation of a notice inviting party officials to what was described as a meeting to inaugurate a “Governorship Campaign Council” under Dr. Balogun’s leadership.
According to the party, the proposed meeting and all associated activities have no affiliation with the official leadership or campaign structure of the NDC in Lagos State.
“The NDC Lagos State Chapter distances itself completely from this and urges all authentic party members to disregard any such invitation,” the statement read.
The party warned members against individuals it described as “imposters and political merchants” allegedly seeking to exploit the NDC’s name and goodwill for personal political ambitions.
Reaffirming its commitment to unity and discipline, the Lagos chapter called on Local Government Chairmen, Assembly candidates, party leaders, and supporters to remain focused on the party’s official campaign and avoid actions capable of causing confusion within its ranks.
The statement further described Funso Doherty as the party’s symbol of hope for a better Lagos, emphasizing his commitment to transparency, public service, and people-centered governance.
The NDC urged members to protect the integrity of the party by remaining loyal to its official candidate and leadership, expressing confidence that unity and discipline would strengthen the party’s chances in the forthcoming election.