The De Renaissance Patriots Foundation has renewed its call for the emergence of an indigene as governor of Lagos State in 2027, warning against what it described as the continued marginalisation of natives in the state’s political leadership.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its Media Office, the socio-cultural organisation declared that key leadership positions in the state must be occupied by indigenes, stressing that Lagos “is not an orphan” devoid of ancestral ownership.
The statement, titled “Lagos Is Not An Orphan: A Call For The Restoration Of Indigenous Leadership,” criticised what it termed the growing dominance of non-indigenes in the governance structure of the state since the return to democracy in 1999.
The group argued that indigeneship goes beyond residency, describing it as a heritage rooted in ancestry, culture, and history tied to the five traditional divisions of Lagos — Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe.
It lamented that indigenous participation at the highest levels of governance had steadily declined, alleging that many strategic positions across the arms of government were now occupied by non-indigenes.
“This situation has led to the marginalisation of those whose ancestral roots define Lagos State. It is troubling that individuals without clear indigenous roots have occupied significant public offices for extended periods,” the statement read.
The foundation questioned whether qualified indigenes were no longer available to lead the state, insisting that the issue at stake ahead of the 2027 governorship election was one of “principle, identity, and historical legitimacy.”
Amid ongoing political permutations ahead of the poll, the group maintained that all political parties must present indigenous candidates, adding that no party should be exempt from what it described as a matter of fairness and justice.
It specifically demanded that the next governor, deputy governor, and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly must emerge from one of the five recognised indigenous divisions.
“We firmly reject any notion that undermines the capacity and rightful place of Lagos indigenes in governing their own land,” the group stated.
The foundation, however, pledged to pursue its advocacy through peaceful and lawful means, while calling for what it described as the restoration of equity and justice in the state’s political system.
“Lagos is home to many, but it is not without history, heritage, and identity. Its leadership must reflect those whose roots are embedded in its soil,” it added.
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