The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State has announced its decision to adopt consensus candidates for chairmanship and councillorship positions in the upcoming local government elections scheduled for July 12.

According to Hakeem Olalemi, PDP Vice Chairman for Lagos Central, the party has scheduled its primaries for Saturday, May 17, to be conducted across all local government secretariats in the state. The selection process will be based on agreements reached among stakeholders in each council area.

Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, Olalemi expressed confidence in the PDP's chances in the forthcoming elections.

"Our great party, the PDP, will conduct its primaries for the upcoming local government elections in Lagos at various party secretariats on May 17. We strongly believe our chances are bright in the next local government election. We are optimistic and hope the process will be free and fair," he stated.

While acknowledging the ruling party's influence over the state electoral commission, Olalemi affirmed the PDP's readiness to compete. "We know the ruling party has significant control over the state electoral body, but we are ready to go head-to-head with the APC. By God's grace, we will emerge victorious. We are fully prepared physically, morally, and in every other way," he emphasized.

Lagos PDP Chairman, Phillips Aivoji, also voiced optimism about the party's prospects in the election. "We are in this race to win. We will continue to mobilize the people to support and vote for the PDP. I believe we have a strong chance in several areas, while in others, we are prepared to battle it out," he said.

Aivoji promised that Lagos residents would benefit significantly under PDP leadership. "With the PDP, Lagosians can expect good governance, purposeful leadership, and people-centered administration. The citizens will be our top priority if we are elected," he assured.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has already conducted its primary elections last Saturday to select candidates for the July local government polls.