KEY POINTS

• Governor Sanwo-Olu has endorsed his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, for the 2027 Lagos governorship race.
• APC leaders reached a consensus, citing Hamzat’s experience and readiness to lead.
• The endorsement reflects ongoing political influence from President Bola Tinubu and early succession planning in Lagos.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has thrown his weight behind his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, as the preferred candidate to succeed him in the 2027 governorship election.

The endorsement came after a closed-door meeting held at Lagos House, Marina, where members of the State Executive Council, party leaders, and the Governor’s Advisory Council gathered. During the meeting, Hamzat formally expressed his intention to contest for the top seat.

Sanwo-Olu described the decision as a consensus among stakeholders, praising Hamzat’s competence, loyalty, and deep understanding of governance in Lagos. He noted that the deputy governor’s experience over the years makes him well-prepared to take over leadership of the state.

The governor also acknowledged the influence of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in shaping Lagos politics, suggesting that the current political alignment reflects a long-term vision for continuity.

Hamzat, a former commissioner for works and infrastructure and a two-term deputy governor, has long been seen as a key figure in Lagos politics. Though he has not officially launched a full campaign, the endorsement is expected to strengthen his position within the All Progressives Congress ahead of party primaries.

The move, coming well ahead of the election cycle, signals an early effort by the ruling party to consolidate support and maintain control of Lagos State.