Sanwo-Olu endorses Obafemi Hamzat as successor

(L - R) Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Obafemi Hamzat
Sanwo-Olu endorses Obafemi Hamzat as successor

Sanwo-Olu endorses Obafemi Hamzat as successor

 ·      Background of the Endorsement

·      Sanwo-Olu’s Reasons for Supporting Hamzat

·      Political Implications for APC and Lagos

·      Reactions from Party Members and Stakeholders

·      What This Means for 2027

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has officially endorsed his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, as his preferred successor for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election. This endorsement, made during a closed-door meeting with party leaders, signals a strong alignment within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and positions Hamzat as the frontrunner for the party’s ticket.

Background of the Endorsement

On April 27, 2026, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced his support for Hamzat at Lagos House, Marina, after Hamzat formally declared his intention to contest. The meeting was attended by members of the State Executive Council, the Governor’s Advisory Council, and prominent APC leaders such as Musiliu Obanikoro and Ganiyu Solomon. Sanwo-Olu described the endorsement as a unanimous decision among stakeholders, emphasizing Hamzat’s preparedness and capability to lead Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu’s Reasons for Endorsement

Sanwo-Olu highlighted several qualities that influenced his decision:

- Experience and Loyalty: Hamzat has served as deputy governor since 2019, working closely with Sanwo-Olu for over seven years. He was praised for his integrity, loyalty, and commitment.  

- Institutional Knowledge: Sanwo-Olu described Hamzat as someone who “knows where all the rooms in the house are,” underscoring his deep understanding of Lagos governance structures.  

- Support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: Sanwo-Olu credited Tinubu for identifying and nurturing both his and Hamzat’s leadership potential, framing the endorsement as part of a broader political vision.  

Political Implications

The endorsement has significant implications for Lagos politics:

- APC Consensus Building: The decision reflects early alignment within the APC, reducing internal competition and strengthening Hamzat’s candidacy.  

- Broader Support Base: Other influential figures, including Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, Femi Gbajabiamila (Chief of Staff to the President), Senator Tokunbo Abiru, and Wale Edun (Minister of Finance), have also expressed support for Hamzat, consolidating his position as the leading contender.  

- Symbolic Gesture: At the meeting, Sanwo-Olu publicly raised Hamzat’s hand before party members, a symbolic act of endorsement that drew applause and reinforced the message of unity. 

Reactions and Counterpoints

While the endorsement strengthens Hamzat’s chances, not all voices within the APC have fully aligned:

- Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor), a former governorship candidate, has cautioned that no formal decision has yet been taken by the party leadership. He noted, however, that he would respect a consensus if one emerges. 

Conclusion

Sanwo-Olu’s endorsement of Obafemi Hamzat marks a pivotal moment in Lagos politics ahead of the 2027 elections. With strong backing from party leaders and influential figures, Hamzat is now positioned as the APC’s most likely candidate. The move not only underscores Sanwo-Olu’s confidence in his deputy but also signals a broader strategy of continuity and stability within Lagos governance. However, the final decision will rest with the APC leadership and the dynamics of the political landscape as the election approaches.