KEY POINTS

• Obafemi Hamzat met with Gbajabiamila and APC leaders to seek support for his 2027 governorship ambition
• Party stakeholders endorsed his candidacy, highlighting his experience and political grounding
• Gbajabiamila pledged support and assured that any APC primary would follow due process

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, has met with the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, alongside key leaders of the All Progressives Congress, as consultations intensify ahead of the 2027 governorship election in the state.

The meeting, held on Sunday, brought together prominent party figures including the Secretary of the Governors’ Advisory Council, Muti Are, former lawmakers such as Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, as well as other stakeholders within the Lagos APC structure.

Speaking during the meeting, Obanikoro explained that the visit was aimed at securing Gbajabiamila’s support for Hamzat’s aspiration to succeed as governor of Lagos State.

He described the deputy governor as an experienced and grounded politician with deep roots in the state’s political system, stressing the importance of party leaders uniting behind him to ensure victory in the forthcoming election.

Hamzat, in his remarks, said the visit was both strategic and consultative, noting that he sought to tap into Gbajabiamila’s experience and guidance as he prepares for the race.

He emphasised the need for the APC to remain cohesive and well-organised, adding that sustaining the party’s leadership structure is crucial for continued governance success in Lagos.

Focus on continuity and party strength

The deputy governor also highlighted the importance of maintaining stability at both the state and federal levels, pointing to what he described as progress made under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He stressed that the party must carefully select its governorship candidate to preserve the achievements recorded in Lagos and ensure continued development.

In a statement shared after the meeting, Hamzat reiterated his commitment to strengthening the state and delivering improved outcomes for residents, adding that he remains focused on the task ahead.

In response, Gbajabiamila assured Hamzat of his support, expressing confidence in his ambition to lead Lagos State.

He further indicated that his political base in Surulere would back the deputy governor during the election.

Gbajabiamila also reaffirmed the party’s commitment to due process, stating that if a primary election becomes necessary, it would be conducted in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

The meeting reflects ongoing political alignments within the Lagos APC as stakeholders begin early preparations for what is expected to be a competitive 2027 governorship race.