Prominent Igbo leader and community advocate, Igwe Amb. Ferdinand Aguneke, PhD, has called for increased political participation, civic engagement and stronger representation of the Igbo community in Lagos State, particularly in Lagos East Senatorial District, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Aguneke made the call while addressing party faithful, political leaders, stakeholders and supporters at the Lagos East Mega Rally held on November 13, 2026, at the Epe Recreation Ground, Lagos State.

Speaking at the well-attended political gathering, the Igbo leader emphasised the importance of unity, political inclusion and active participation in the democratic process, noting that members of the Igbo community residing in Lagos East and other parts of Lagos State should remain actively involved in shaping the political and developmental future of their host communities.

He stressed that Lagos East remains an important political constituency where every community has a role to play in promoting peaceful coexistence, democratic participation and grassroots development.

AGUNEKE HIGHLIGHTS TINUBU’S RENEWED HOPE AGENDA

In his address, Aguneke highlighted ten major policy initiatives and development areas associated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which commenced in 2023.

According to him, the initiatives have continued to generate national conversations around economic reforms, infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, agriculture and institutional development.

The ten areas he highlighted include:

1. Fuel Subsidy Reform: Removal of the longstanding petrol subsidy regime and the redirection of government resources towards other development priorities.

2. Foreign Exchange Reform: Unification of the country’s multiple foreign exchange windows to reform the foreign exchange market.

3. Student Loan Scheme: Establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to provide financial assistance to eligible students pursuing higher education.

4. Local Government Autonomy: Support for financial autonomy for Nigeria’s 774 local government councils following the Supreme Court judgment.

5. Infrastructure Development: Ongoing federal infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

6. Minimum Wage: Signing of the ₦70,000 national minimum wage into law.

7. Electricity Sector Reform: Implementation of the Electricity Act 2023, which creates opportunities for state participation in electricity generation, transmission and distribution.

8. Youth Empowerment: Introduction of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme to equip Nigerian youths with digital and technology skills.

9. Agricultural Development: Expansion of agricultural mechanisation and dry-season farming initiatives to strengthen food production.

10. Regional Development: Establishment of regional development commissions aimed at promoting development across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.

Aguneke noted that these policy areas deserve sustained public discussion, particularly regarding their implementation, impact on citizens and contribution to national development,

Says Greater Political Inclusion, National Unity and Grassroots Engagement Are Key to a Stronger Lagos East Ahead of 2027

CALLS FOR GREATER POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN LAGOS EAST

Addressing the political direction of Lagos East ahead of the 2027 general elections, Aguneke spoke about the importance of active participation by residents, community leaders, professionals, business owners, youths and other stakeholders.

He also highlighted the political candidates being presented by the APC across Lagos State and Lagos East, including:

– President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR – Presidential candidate.
– Dr. Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat – Lagos State governorship candidate.
– Hon. Adetokunbo Abiru – Lagos East Senatorial candidate.
– Hon. Wale Raji – Federal House of Representatives candidate.
– Hon. Bayo Balogun – Federal House of Representatives candidate.
– Hon. Abiodun Tobun – Lagos State House of Assembly candidate.
– Hon. Ogunkelu Oluwadahunsi Sylvester – Lagos State House of Assembly candidate.
– Hon. (Engr.) Abiola Okanlawon Olowu – Lagos State House of Assembly candidate.
– Hon. Oladele Ajayi – Lagos State House of Assembly candidate.

He also acknowledged other APC candidates and political stakeholders across Lagos East, stressing the importance of grassroots engagement and participation in the democratic process.

LAGOS EAST AT THE CENTRE OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Igbo leader further underscored the need for stronger collaboration between the Igbo community and other ethnic groups in Lagos East, describing peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and constructive political engagement as important ingredients for community development.

He maintained that political participation should go beyond election periods, encouraging residents to take an active interest in governance, public policies, community affairs and issues affecting their respective local governments.

According to him, the growing involvement of different communities in Lagos East’s political process provides an opportunity for broader representation and stronger relationships among residents.

A MESSAGE OF UNITY AND DEMOCRATIC PARTICIPATION

Aguneke’s appearance at the Lagos East Mega Rally further brought attention to the place of community leaders in promoting political awareness, inclusion and civic responsibility.

He reiterated the importance of unity among party stakeholders and residents, noting that the future of Lagos East requires constructive dialogue, responsible leadership and active involvement from all sections of society.

As political activities gradually gather momentum towards the 2027 general elections, the call for greater political participation among the Igbo community and other residents of Lagos East remains an important part of the conversation surrounding representation, inclusion and democratic development in Lagos State.