Laja Adeoye Urges Leaders to Embrace Herbery Macaulay’s Democratic ideals

…Says nationalism, accountability key to Nigeria’s progress

…Class for unity and principled leadership ahead of 2027 elections

The Lagos State governorship candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), Laja Adeoye, has described the ideals of Nigeria’s foremost nationalist, Herbert Samuel Heelas Macaulay, as enduring values needed to strengthen the country’s democracy.

Adeoye made the remark while attending the 80th Remembrance Ceremony of the late nationalist in Lagos, where he joined other prominent Nigerians to honour the legacy of the man widely regarded as the father of Nigerian nationalism.

He noted that Herbert Macaulay’s contributions to Nigeria’s political development, including the establishment of the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923, his opposition to colonial rule, and his advocacy for constitutional reforms, press freedom and indigenous participation in governance, laid the foundation for the country’s independence struggle.

The APM governorship candidate said it was significant to attend the ceremony alongside elder statesman Chief Olabode George, a direct descendant of the Macaulay family, describing his presence as a bridge between Nigeria’s rich political history and the present.

Adeoye stressed that as Nigeria continues to confront economic and democratic challenges, the values exemplified by Herbert Macaulay should inspire political leaders to embrace accountability, unity and selfless service.

He added that with preparations gradually building towards the 2027 general elections, political stakeholders must place national interest above personal ambition and work together to strengthen democratic institutions.

Adeoye urged Nigerians to continue preserving the memories and ideals of the country’s founding nationalists, saying history should not only be remembered but also reflected in leadership and public service.