Onikan stadium was agog and full to the brim for Akinwumi Ambode’s declaration speech, as Lagosians surged in numbers into the stadium.
Thousands of his supporters were present at the declaration ceremony.
Dignitaries, All Progressives Congress Chieftains, party members and
Royal fathers of Lagos were also present at the venue which witnessed a
high security presence.
The ceremony officially started about a few minutes to 11am, and the
Chief Imam of Lagos state, Alhaji M. Garuba Akinola Ibrahim mounted the
podium to say the Muslim opening prayer, after which the adviser to the
Governor of Lagos state on religious matters took the Christian prayer.
Speeches were made by different dignitaries, as the crowd was entertained by artistes, Pasuma, Olamide and M.I.
Akinwumi Ambode arrived the ceremony at about 11:38am and was greeted
by the massive crowd who cheered him as he walked round the stadium.
More dignitaries spoke before Ambode was called up to the podium to make
his declaration speech, titled “Continuing the progress, securing the
future”.
Some excerpts from the speech:
“The presence of thousands of supporters today is an attestation of
the state-wide consultations that we commenced since last year. The
acceptance and popularity of my candidacy, the great turn out and the
fantastic support we have received from every corner of the State and
beyond, from all sectors and various religious persuasions confirm that
this is a divine moment in the history of Lagos State.”
“In recognition of this support, I, Akinwunmi Ambode, in your
presence and in the presence of God, formally put myself forward to run
for the position of the governor of Lagos state.”
“I make this declaration with the highest sense of responsibility. I
am putting myself forward because I believe I have the qualities
required to continue the giant strides, which our great party, All
Progressives Congress has achieved in Lagos in recent years.”
“I am resolved to offer you genuine leadership that will be
accountable with all the principles of good governance, a government of
inclusion that will not leave any race or gender behind. Everybody
counts. The aged, widows, artisans, students, children, the physically
challenged, professionals, we all have a part to play.”
“Come February 2015, Lagosians will once again elect a governor that
will not only continue the great works of these fore-bearers, but will
also lead the people of Lagos to greater economic heights, prosperity,
accountable democracy, and more importantly, the protection of lives and
properties.”
“I stand before you today as a bridge between the elderly and the
youth. I hold before you a beacon that summons us all to building
together a more prosperous Lagos. I have the competence, experience and
determination to lead Lagos State to greater economic heights and
prosperity.”
“I ask for your support and your votes that will send me to Alausa to
continue in my tradition of selfless service to this great State of
ours.”
