Lagos operating far below its potential – Doherty
The Lagos State governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Funso Doherty, has declared that Lagos is operating far below its potential, leaving residents struggling with worsening living conditions despite paying taxes and numerous levies.
Doherty made the assertion on Sunday night during the Lagos Governorship Debate organised by the Nigeria Debate Consortium in Lekki, Lagos.
He argued that the state’s enormous economic potential had not translated into better living conditions for its residents, questioning the benefits Lagosians receive in return for their financial contributions to government.
“We believe that Lagos is operating far below its potential, and as a result of that, you, Lagosians, are operating far below your potential, and your lives are getting more and more difficult. You pay your taxes, you pay endless levies and yet you are getting less and less for it,” he said.
The NDC candidate maintained that government policies should empower residents by expanding access to education, skills and economic opportunities.
He pledged to introduce genuinely free education, insisting that no child born in Lagos should be denied schooling because of their parents’ financial circumstances.
“Our policies are aimed at capacitating the people, giving them skills, ensuring that there is no child born in Lagos who does not get an education because their parents cannot afford it. We have said we will make education free; truly free,” Doherty stated.
His remarks reflected his campaign’s emphasis on improving public services and ensuring that the state’s resources translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Lagosians.
In his published manifesto, Doherty pledged to provide free public education through senior secondary school or technical college, including books and examination fees.
He also proposed expanding technical and vocational education to equip young people with practical skills.
The debate brought together major contenders in the February 6, 2027, Lagos governorship election, including incumbent Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Deji Doherty of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The event provided a platform for the candidates to present their programmes and explain how they intend to address challenges facing residents of the state.