NIGERIA: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally endorsed Obafemi Hamzat as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election, signaling early alignment within the ruling party ahead of the crucial poll.
The endorsement was given during a strategic meeting with members of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC) held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The GAC — widely regarded as the most influential decision-making body within Lagos APC — had earlier adopted Hamzat as its preferred candidate.
In a statement shared by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga, the development was confirmed, noting:
“President Tinubu formally endorses the Lagos APC consensus governorship candidate Obafemi Hamzat.”
Hamzat, who currently serves as deputy to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has steadily gained support within party ranks in recent months, culminating in his emergence as the consensus choice of party elders.
Party Unity and Strategic Backing
Before the President’s endorsement, the GAC had already demonstrated strong backing for Hamzat by unanimously adopting him and reportedly agreeing to secure his nomination form — a move interpreted by political observers as a clear sign of internal cohesion.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has also publicly aligned with the decision, reinforcing the growing consensus around his deputy as the likely successor.
The GAC, led by prominent party leaders, plays a decisive role in shaping political outcomes in Lagos, and its endorsement often carries significant weight in determining candidates.
Implications for the 2027 Race
Tinubu’s backing is expected to significantly boost Hamzat’s chances, given the President’s longstanding influence in Lagos politics and within the APC.
With support now coming from:
The Presidency
The GAC
The incumbent governor
Hamzat enters the race as a dominant figure within the party’s structure.
Despite this, APC officials have maintained that the party will still conduct primary elections in accordance with its constitution, allowing other aspirants the opportunity to contest.
Broader Political Context
The early endorsement reflects a strategic effort by the APC in Lagos to maintain stability and avoid internal divisions that could weaken its electoral strength.
Lagos remains a critical political stronghold for the APC, and decisions surrounding succession are often closely managed by party leadership.
Observers believe that presenting a united front well ahead of the election cycle could give the party a significant advantage, while also shaping the dynamics of opposition strategies in the state.
