The Lagos State chapter of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has felicitated Nigerians on the country’s 66th Independence anniversary, commending Lagos residents for their resilience in the face of economic and social challenges.
In a statement signed by the party’s Lagos State Publicity Secretary, Ayodele Kazeem Olalekan, the APM said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since independence and the need for government to prioritise the welfare of citizens.
The party commended Nigerians, particularly Lagosians, for continuing to work, raise families, operate businesses and pursue their aspirations despite prevailing challenges.
It said independence should be reflected in effective governance that protects the welfare, dignity and economic interests of citizens.
The APM acknowledged challenges faced by Lagos residents, including traffic congestion, business pressures, environmental concerns and the cost of living, while calling for policies aimed at improving everyday life.
The party also introduced its Lagos governorship candidate, Prince Laja Adeoye, and his “Atunto Eko” agenda as its proposed approach to governance ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Adeoye is the APM’s Lagos governorship candidate, while the “Atunto Eko” agenda has been presented as the party’s blueprint for repositioning the state. Previous presentations of the agenda have focused on areas including healthcare, education, job creation through small and medium-sized enterprises, infrastructure and security.
According to the statement, an APM administration led by Adeoye would seek to address traffic challenges, improve waste management and environmental sanitation, and pursue what the party described as a fairer and more transparent tax system.
The party said it would seek to reduce the burden of multiple taxation and unnecessary levies on residents and businesses.
The APM said Lagos had significant human and economic resources and argued that effective management, accountability and transparency were necessary to translate those resources into improved public services.
It said its proposed approach was not limited to changing political leadership but would involve reviewing government policies and practices with the aim of improving service delivery.
The party further said its “Atunto Eko” vision was centred on governance that prioritises residents and ensures that public resources are directed towards addressing everyday challenges.
Earlier presentations of the agenda by Adeoye have also included proposals on affordable healthcare, education, SME-driven job creation, modern infrastructure and community-based security.
The APM urged Lagosians to remain hopeful about the future, saying the resilience demonstrated by citizens should be complemented by government policies that produce tangible improvements in their lives.
The party said it remained committed to what it described as a Lagos where businesses could thrive, transportation would become easier, environmental conditions would improve and government would focus on public service.
“On this Independence Day, I salute every Nigerian who continues to believe in our country despite the challenges,” Olalekan said.
He wished Nigerians a happy 66th Independence anniversary and prayed for the progress of Nigeria and Lagos State.
